HC Deb 18 March 1968 vol 761 cc4-5
4. Mr. Ellis

asked the Minister of Technology what action he has taken to implement the recommendation in Report No. 55 of the National Board for Prices and Incomes that the margin allowed to distributors should be cut in any price rises to the consumer due to devaluation.

Mr. Benn

The Board's recommendations, which concern distributors' margins in relation to recommended resale prices, are being taken fully into account in examining any proposals submitted to my Department. In addition, the attention of trade associations and manufacturers is being drawn to the findings of the Report.

Mr. Ellis

Will my right hon. Friend make arrangements in his Department to publish what distributors' margins were in relation to cost before and after the Report, so that we can see what effect his strictures have had?

Mr. Benn

I will consider that proposal, but I do not think that I should assent to it until I have considered whether it is practicable for me to do so.