HC Deb 20 November 1968 vol 773 c1284
30. Mr. Gardner

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what machinery exists in his department for the review of chocolate and sugar con fectionery prices.

Mr. John Mackie

Under the early warning arrangements the leading manufacturers give our Department advance notification of their proposals to increase prices, together with the appropriate supporting information. Our officials examine these against the criteria for price increases set out in the relevant White Paper.

Mr. Gardner

But is my hon. Friend aware that a number of manufacturers have been, in effect, increasing prices by reducing substantially the size of packs? In some cases the price increase is between 15 and 20 per cent. Will he be very careful about this?

Mr. Mackie

As my hon. Friend says, reducing the size is equal to increasing the price. If cases are reported to us, we shall take the necessary action.

Mr. Edward M. Taylor

Is the Minister aware that reductions in the size of many products such as biscuits, as well as sweets, goes on daily? Would this not be an appropriate matter to refer to the National Board for Prices and Incomes, bearing in mind that, according to the Press, the Board has little to do in its prices section?

Mr. Mackie

If the hon. Gentleman has any cases to give us, we will look at them to see if they are suitable for reference to the National Board for Prices and Incomes.