§ Mr. W. ROBINSONasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will ascertain the present average export prices, including sea freight, of Colonial meat, cheese and butter, and the present average retail prices of the same commodities; and if he is aware that consignments of cheese and butter frequently change ownership while in transit, the effect of which is to substantially increase prices to the consumer?
Mr. WEBBThe information desired by the hon. Member as to current export prices can only be ascertained by inquiry in the Dominions, and, as the relation between those prices and current retail1978W prices in this country is only indirect, I do not think that the expense would be justified. I am aware that consignments of cheese and butter are often sold in transit, but it does not of necessity follow that such transactions increase the price to the final consumer.