§ 14. Mr. Moonmanasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection when retail grocery stores may expect to receive their fair prices list; and what steps she will take to ensure that they are displayed and adhered to.
Mr. Alan WilliamsLegislation is required to enable us to fulfil our pledge to introduce maximum fair prices for certain key foods. My right hon. Friend will put this before the House in the very near future.
§ Mr. MoonmanWill my hon. Friend also bear in mind when preparing the legislation that there should be a clear definition of the rôle of the local authority as well as of his Department, and what advice he might give to hon. Members who are already receiving complaints in this respect?
Mr. WilliamsI shall bear that point in mind. The consultations include consultations with the local authorities.
§ Mr. SilvesterWill the Minister bear in mind that maximum fair prices can often be taken as the prices which a store will charge, and that many stores are cutting back below the prices now recommended by manufacturers?
Mr. WilliamsI am aware of that. We are having consultations with the trade and industry on all aspects of this policy.