HC Deb 26 February 1964 vol 690 cc83-4W
69. Mr. Steele

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what was the average price per gallon of milk paid to producers in each year from 1959 to 1963; and what were the agreed distributor's margins for the same years.

Mr. Noble

The following is the information:

Year to 31st March Guaranteed Price* Average Producer Price† (Pence per Gallon) Distributive Margin‡
1959–60 37.89 37.19 19.78
1960–61 37.64 35.06 20.44
1961–62 38.44 35.08 21.67
1962–63 38.04 35.13 22.50
1963–64 38.54 36.20 23.70
(estimated) (estimated)
* Weighted average guaranteed price paid to Scottish Milk Marketing Boards. The guaranteed price as determined following the annual review is implemented through the boards and is related to a standard quantity of milk for each board area. Production of milk in excess of the standard quantity reduces the average price per gallon paid to producers by the board. † Before deduction of ex-farm hau'age charge. ‡ The rate of the distributive margin (which in Scotland covers the full distributive function from first-hand sale to delivery to consumer) varies throughout the year. The figures shown are the average rate of gross margin over the year, including the [...]eat treatment allowance. The net profit guaranteed to distributors was increased from 2d. to 2.25d. a gallon from 1st October, 1962.

70. Mr. Steele

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the shortage of milk for manufacturing purposes, which is causing redundancy and other difficulties in milk processing factories; how long he expects this situation to continue; and what steps he proposes to take in this matter.

Mr. Noble

Supplies of milk for manufacturing purposes have been somewhat shorter in recent months due to the generally lower level of milk production. This has resulted in some interference with the normal operation of the manufacturing creameries, but the supply position now appears to be easing and this easing is likely to continue. The level of milk production is a matter for consideration at the annual review and I cannot anticipate the outcome of these discussions.