§ 46. Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware that T. Wall and Sons Limited have announced a 2d. per lb. increase in the price of their pork sausages; and, as this is contrary to the Government's wages, prices and dividends policy, what action he proposes to take to prevent this proposed increase.
§ Mr. PeartThis increase was not contrary to Government policy. We have always recognised that prices must rise if costs go up markedly for certain specified reasons, one of which is a change in the supply of raw materials, and those increased costs cannot be absorbed.
The early warning arrangements enabled me in this case, as in a number of similar cases, to satisfy myself in advance that the proposed increase was fully consistent with the criteria applicable during the standstill period, and the firm had been so informed before they made their announcement.