§ 19. Mr. Willeyasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will now state the average retail prices for beef for September, 1955, and September, 1958.
§ Mr. John HareThough no official retail prices for beef are available, it would appear that the retail prices of some of the best cuts have probably increased by 1s. or more a 1b. but that the prices of some of the cheaper cuts have hardly changed.
§ Mr. WilleyIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these considerable increases in retail prices are not unrelated to Government policy? Will he assure the housewife that he will look at these prices and keep them under review to ensure that there is not undue exploitation?
§ Mr. HareI would point out to the hon. Member that the housewife has already shown that if prices go higher than she thinks is reasonable she does not buy. I think that will be one of the great benefits.