§ 61. Mr. Randallasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware of increases in the retail prices of cheeses and bacon since June, 1958; and, in view of the hardship caused to old age pensioners and others, whether he will take steps to control the prices of these commodities.
§ 62. Mr. Shortasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware of the recent increases in the price of cheese in Newcastle-upon-Tyne; and what steps he is taking to increase the supply and control the price.
§ Mr. GodberIt is not unusual for bacon prices to rise a little towards the end of the year. The increase in the price of cheese has followed a temporary shortage. My right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade has just increased the North American quota for 7W cheese to allow the import of further supplies from that source. It is not the policy of the Government to control prices.