HC Deb 23 May 1957 vol 570 cc1381-2
28. Mr. F. Willey

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will take steps to compel merchants to disclose the charge made for preparing for sale, by mixing and bagging, compound fertilisers.

Mr. Godber

My right hon. Friend has no power to compel merchants to make such disclosures.

Mr. Willey

As inquiries show that there is a very wide variation in the rake-off of manufacturers—in some cases it is higher than 50 per cent.—will the hon. Gentleman advise his right hon. Friend to seek these powers?

Mr. Godber

I am surprised at the figure quoted by the hon. Gentleman. Fifty per cent. seems extremely high. I would remind him, however, that it is very easy for farmers, if the prices seem excessive to them, to buy straight fertiliser. I should have thought that that would be an effective check against any monopolistic tendencies.

Mr. Willey

As it is not an effective check, will the hon. Gentleman look at the matter again?