§ Mr. WRIGHTasked the Food Controller whether he is aware that, under the various Cheese Orders, the factor is allowed 1½d. per lb., the cutter-up 2½d. per lb., with discounts, and the producer 1d. per lb. only, or just enough to cover the cost of collection and haulage of the milk to the depot; that the cost of labour and materials used in cheese making are up 100 per cent. and over, rennet from 4s. to 33s. to 40s. per gallon, cheese calico from 1¾d. per yard to 8½d., and cheese cloth from 2d. per yard to 1s. 6d.; that the cheese made has to be retained for considerable periods in the cheese rooms, turned over, and moved until distribution is made to the factors; that producers have been deprived of at least 50 per cent. of their retail trade; that in these circumstances it is impossible to make cheese at a profit; and whether he will reconsider the prices fixed?
§ Major ASTORThe prices of British cheese were fixed in consultation with the Agricultural Advisory Council, and the costs of and incidental to production were fully taken into account. The commission of 2½ per cent. allowed to factors is equal at present rates to approximately ½d. per lb. The retailers' allowance of 2½d. per lb. has to cover all risks in shrinkage, cutting, and general trade expenses. Where a maker has to hold cheese in his cheese room for more than six weeks from the time of manufacture he receives an additional payment of 1s. per cwt. per fortnight to cover the cost of storing and handling. It is not at present proposed to revise these prices.