Major HENDERSONasked the Food Controller whether he is aware that, owing to the present high price existing for rabbit skins, prices are being offered and paid for rabbits in Glasgow in excess of the controlled price; whether he is also aware that it is the opinion of Glasgow tradesmen that the present high price for rabbit skins is the direct result of the restrictions on the sale, due to control; and whether he is prepared to decontrol the sale of rabbits or to take any other steps to remedy the existing state of affairs?
Mr. ROBERTSI am informed that in certain localities rabbits are being sold at prices in excess of the maximum price permitted, and am taking the necessary steps to enforce the Order. My Department does not concur in the suggestion made in the second part of the question concerning the prevailing high prices of rabbit skins, which appear to be due to the fact that the demand by furriers is greatly in excess of any possible supply. An advisory committee of the trade is now considering the whole position; but, pending their report, I do not consider, having regard to the interests of the consumer, that the removal of control from rabbits would be justified.