§ 5. Mr. Willeyasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what were the results of his inquiry into the profits of egg packers since the creation of the Egg Marketing Board; and by 3 what amount those profits were in excess of the profits as estimated by his Department.
§ Mr. John HareThe results of an inquiry into the costs of egg packers, based on a period extending to 30th September, 1957, have been made available to the Egg Board whose responsibility it is to fix the remuneration of packers who are now agents of the Board. Pending negotiations between the parties concerned, it would be inappropriate for me to disclose the results of the inquiry which inevitably leave room for differences of interpretation, but at a later date it is possible that I shall be able to give the hon. Gentleman some more information.
§ Mr. WilleyI am much obliged to the right hon. Gentleman. Is he not aware that there have been statements that egg packers are receiving unduly large margins and even allowing bonuses and so on to attract trade? As that affects the prices which the producers get, ought it not to have the right hon. Gentleman's closer supervision?
§ Mr. HareThese matters are receiving my close attention, but at the moment it would be better if I said nothing more.