§ 17. Mr. de Freitasasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware that one of the largest dairies in the south of England now delivers all milk in cartons instead of in bottles; and what he is doing to encourage this method of distribution in view of the fact that it is cleaner and quieter and involves the transport of fewer heavy loads.
§ Mr. SoamesI welcome the enterprise of this firm in trying out a new method of milk distribution. The question of its wider use must, however, be one for the trade itself to decide.
§ Mr. StonehouseIs the Minister aware that one of the reasons why dairies are reluctant to convert to this technique is because of a ring in the carton manufacturing industry? Will he have investigations made into that?
§ Mr. SoamesThat had not been drawn to my attention. I believe that there is a considerable difference of opinion within the dairy industry as to which is the most suitable form of distribution, bottles or cartons. I had not heard of the aspect to which the hon. Gentleman refers.