HC Deb 28 February 1968 vol 759 cc1403-4
38. Mr. Gardner

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many price increases since devaluation have been notified to, and examined by, his Department under the early warning system; how many of the proposed increases were withdrawn as a result of discussions with the firms concerned; and how many have been referred to the National Board for Prices and Incomes, to the latest convenient date.

Mr. Peart

Between 18th November, 1967, and 23rd February, 1968, 147 proposals for price increases have been notified to my Department under the early warning system; of these 59 are attributable wholly or mainly to devaluation; this was an additional factor in a further 37 cases. Ninety-two have been accepted as notified, 16 have been modified after discussion, and 7 rejected or withdrawn. The remainder are still being examined. Nine notifications, all relating to bread flour, were referred to the National Board for Prices and Incomes.

Mr. Gardner

While welcoming what my right hon. Friend has said, may I ask whether he will accept that the time has come for him to get tough over food prices? While he is about it, would he also care to settle the argument between the Consumer Council and the Grocer? Which is right?

Mr. Peart

I think that the Consumer Council is right in this case. On the wider aspects of policy, we are trying to make a success of our prices and incomes policy by having our constant watch and early warning arrangements. This is working.

Sir A. V. Harvey

Will the right hon. Gentleman say how often he brings the Prime Minister up to date on these price increases, bearing in mind what the Prime Minister said on 19th November about the £ in people's pockets?

Mr. Peart

I am always in touch with my right hon. Friend.