MINISTRY OF FOOD.

HC Deb 09 June 1920 vol 130 cc431-2W

Mr. REMER

asked the Minister of Food what is the cost per cent. of administering the food control, excluding the Wheat Commission?

Sir W. MITCHELL - THOMSON

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given on Wednesday, 19th May, with regard to the administrative cost of the Ministry of Food and Wheat Commission. On the basis therein given the administrative cost of the Ministry of Food, excluding the Wheat Commission, amounts to 7s. 6d. per £100.

Mr. REMER

asked the Minister of Food whether the pre-War commissions allowed to wheat brokers was 2s. 6d. to 5s. per cent., and out of this profit the broker had to stand the risk of del credere, the deterioration of quality, and fluctuation of the market, none of which are included in his estimate of administrative expenses; and whether, under these circumstances, the administrative charges are not excessive?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative; the second part does not, therefore, arise.