HC Deb 02 February 1959 vol 599 cc1-2W
10. Mr. Lewis

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware that from November, 1958, until December, 1958, the price of English Cheddar cheese had risen from 2s. 6d. per pound to 2s. 10d. per pound, and is now costing 3s. per pound, and that, similarly, Cheshire cheese was 3s. per pound in November and is now 3s. 2d. per pound, Blue Stilton was 4s. 2d. per pound in November and is now 4s. 10d. per pound; and what action he proposes to take, other than price control, to secure a reduction in the price of cheese.

Mr. Godber

Cheese has risen in price because imported supplies have fallen and less milk is available for manufacture here.

The increase in the North American quota, together with the efforts of the Milk Marketing Boards to maintain home production, is having a steadying effect on prices.