HC Deb 08 June 1959 vol 606 cc617-8
25. Miss Burton

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware of public concern at the increase in salad prices immediately prior to the Whitsuntide weekend; and, in view of the fact that this happens every year, if he will set up a committee of inquiry to investigate the profits made by growers, wholesalers and retailers.

Mr. Godber

My right hon. Friend is aware that salad prices did tend generally to rise. Supply and demand for salads fluctuates greatly. When, as at Whitsun, there is a heavy demand, which was reinforced this year by the spell of good weather, prices rise. A thorough inquiry was made only three years ago by the Runciman Committee, and I see no point in initiating another.

Miss Burton

Is the Joint Parliamentary Secretary aware that we get that Answer whether it is fine or whether it is wet? While not knowing whether he does his own shopping or not, may I ask him whether he is aware that on the Friday before Whit Sunday the small shop where I went was ashamed at having to ask 6d. more for tomatoes and 6d. more for cucumbers and that lettuce was up by 3d.? Is he aware that the growers and shopkeepers state that the trouble is that these goods have to go through two or three wholesalers before they reach the shops? Why cannot he have a look at it?

Mr. Godber

I have advised the hon. Lady before today to read the Runciman Committee's Report, which goes into this, and is very good reading. I commend it to the hon. Lady. I think one must take account of the conclusions which that Committee came to in that Report, and I would say to her that while prices no doubt have risen, she must not lose sight of the fact that some prices previously may have been ones at which the growers were losing considerable sums of money.

Mr. Willey

We all read the Runciman Report a very long time ago, so can the hon. Gentleman tell us when the Government are going to take any effective action as a result of that Report?

Mr. Godber

The hon. Gentleman knows perfectly well that that does not arise on this Question.

Hon. Members

Oh.

Miss Burton

On a point of order. While that Answer may have reference to the Runciman Report, it has none to my shopping bill prior to Whitsun, so may I give notice that I shall raise it on the Adjournment if possible?