§ Mr. A. SHORTasked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that candied peel is being sold at 2s. 6d. to 3s. per lb.; whether the pre-war price was 6d. per lb.; whether candied peel is a controlled article; and, if not, will he take steps to secure its sale at a reduced price?
§ Mr. McCURDYThe Food Controller is aware that the present and pre-war prices of candied peel are approximately as stated in the question. The increase in price is due, I understand, to increased cost of labour in the country of origin and in this country, and to the increased cost of sugar and of freight. I would remind the hon. Member that this foodstuff is scheduled under the Profiteering Act.