§ Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLEasked the Minister of Agriculture the prices re- 64W ceived during the current season by the growers of soft fruit; whether these prices are remunerative; and, if not, whether he will state the specific cases and the reasons therefor?
§ Dr. ADDISONThe prices realised for soft fruits at Evesham market so far during the season have ranged as follow:
Gooseberries from 8d. to ld. per lb.
Strawberries from 12d. to 4d. per lb.
Raspberries from 8d. to 3d. per lb.
Blackcurrants from 9d. to 4d. per lb.
The prices agreed with growers for forward contracts for soft fruit at Wisbech have ranged as follow:
Gooseberries from £12 to £7 per ton.
Strawberries from £40 to £35 per ton.
Raspberries from £40 to £26 per ton.
I understand that the prices received this season have in a number of cases proved unremunerative to the growers, and that in certain districts growers have found it difficult or even impossible to sell their produce. The chief reasons for these low prices are good home crops, combined with excessive quantities coming on the market at the same time, and a slow demand. In some cases, also, imported produce has had a material effect in lowering prices.