HC Deb 23 January 1958 vol 580 cc1229-30
5. Mr. Willey

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will take steps to secure a reduction in the price of bread, whether by the introduction of price control or other means.

Mr. John Hare

The alternative to present policy is compulsion. The Government do not believe this would have the result the hon. Member desires.

Mr. Willey

The right hon. Gentleman need not be so dogmatic. Will he institute an inquiry? We cannot understand why the price of bread should not fall in relation to the price of flour and wheat. If he says that he will not have compulsion, will he not at any rate let us have an inquiry and let us know what are the facts?

Mr. Hare

I do not think an inquiry will help matters very much. I am always willing to listen to constructive suggestions, but I would point out to the hon. Member that, in general, the price of bread declined by about a halfpenny for a 1¾ lb. loaf from last June and that the price has been kept constant until now.