Devaluation (Additional Costs)

HC Deb 02 April 1969 vol 781 cc470-1

21. Mr. Hawkins

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what proportion of additional costs due to devaluation was borne by agriculture for the year 1967–1968 and are estimated for 1968–1969.

Mr. John Mackie

I regret that it is not practicable to isolate devaluation effects from other factors which affect costs.

Mr. Hawkins

Will the hon. Gentleman bear this in mind at the next Price Review, if he is still in office, and make due allowance for it?

Mr. Mackie

Yes, Sir, but I would substitute "when" for "if".

Mr. Ashton

What benefits have accrued to agriculture because of the higher cost of imported foods due to devaluation?

Mr. Mackie

I did not quite understand my hon. Friend's question. A lot of things, particularly food grains, did not rise in price after devaluation.