§ Mr. W. THORNEasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food if he is aware that the Blackpool and District Association of Bakers, which practically supplies the whole of the bread used in Blackpool, has recently fixed the price locally at Is. 2d. per 4.lb. loaf (3½d. per lb.); if he can state the reason why the price of bread varies in the different towns; and if he intends taking any action in the matter?
Captain BATHURSTThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The Blackpool and District Association of Bakers have been asked to state the grounds upon which they can justify their advance of price. As I have already informed the House, the Food Controller has appointed a Committee to examine the price of bread with a view to its regulation.
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§ Mr. YEOasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether his attention has been called to the fact that bread is being retailed at 9½d. per loaf in various parts of the country as against 1s. elsewhere; whether this is due to a better organisation of the manufacture and distribution of bread; and, if so, whether the Food Controller will take steps to bring about a similar state of affairs in those parts of the country where bread is being retailed at a much higher price?
Captain BATHURSTCertain Cooperative Societies are selling bread at 9½d. per 4.lb. loaf. I understand that this price is admittedly below the cost to the societies, and is not necessarily the outcome of any superior organisation. The third part of the question does not, therefore, arise; but I may refer the hon. Member to the answer just given to the hon. Member for South-West Ham.