§ Mr. Hollisasked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that oranges are sold to retailers at 48s. per case and retailed by them at the controlled price of 8d. per lb.; that allowing for a certain proportion of bad oranges, these prices make it impossible for retailers to meet their costs; 430W and whether he will agree to some readjustment of prices.
§ Mr. StracheyAll oranges imported into the United Kingdom are classified at the port of landing into nine categories according to the percentage of unsound fruit contained in the packages. The maximum prices which the wholesaler may charge to the retailer are not fixed at 48s. as the hon. Member suggests but vary according to the classification for condition and also, the type of package. I am satisfied that, in present circumstances, the present arrangements are the fairest which can be devised.