§ Mr. WebbMost staple foods, including those which are subsidised, are already subject to price control. The main exceptions are fresh fruit and vegetables (other than potatoes) and fish. In fact, it is estimated that about 70 per cent. of money spent by consumers on food for consumption at home is spent on foods that are price-controlled.
I would like to assure the House that, in the interests of consumers, these price 114W controls are operated on a very stringent basis. It is only when there has been an unavoidable increase in procurement costs, or when manufacturers or distributors have incurred extra costs that are completely justified, that we permit an increase in the maximum price. But, as the House is aware, in view of the increased costs of food supplies both at home and abroad, we have had to make certain increases in the retail prices of subsidised foods to keep within the food subsidy ceiling.