HC Deb 10 February 1965 vol 706 cc372-3
24. Mr. Prior

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what results have been achieved by his discussions over rising food prices.

Mr. Peart

In answer to my hon. Friend the Member for Glasgow, Govan (Mr. Rankin) on 20th January, I described the general nature of these discussions, saying that I had expressed the Government's point of view and had received assurances from the various trade associations that they would recommend their members to hold down prices and absorb cost increases to the greatest possible extent. I trust and have every confidence that these assurances will be honoured.

Mr. Prior

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell his economic overlord the First Secretary that a large part of the increases in food prices has been brought about by his Government's own policy? Will he make it plain that the agricultural industry and the food processing industry have put up prices only because they were forced to do so as a result of the economic measures imposed by the Government?

Mr. Peart

The discussions which I have had with the trade interests confirm that the Government's actions, which we had to take, have in no way affected prices in the way suggested.

Mr. Park

Is my right hon. Friend aware that when the Conservative Party was in power food prices rose by over 50 per cent. without any effective action being taken? Is he further aware that any action which he takes along the lines he is suggesting will be received with great satisfaction by the people of this country?

Mr. Peart

Certainly. My right hon. Friend the First Secretary is anxious to set up machinery to deal with specific cases.