§ Mr. H. McLARENasked the Minister of Food whether his attention has been called to the statements made by Sir T. M'Kenzie, High Commissioner for New Zealand, at Stafford, on 2nd December, namely, that beef is sold by New Zealand at 4½d. to 5d. per lb. for export and mutton 3¾d. to 6d. per lb.; and, if these facts are correct, what is the explanation of the high price charged for New Zealand meat in this country?
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§ Mr. McCURDYThe Food Controller's attention has been drawn to the statement. referred to, but he is unable to express any opinion as to the accuracy of the figures quoted. All meat exported from New Zealand on Government account is purchased by the Board of Trade, and is transferred by that Department to the Ministry of Food at an average price of 10d. per lb. The Ministry of Food disposes of the meat to retailers at cost price with the addition of ½d. per lb. to cover transport and administrative charges. All questions with regard to the difference between the prices at which meat is purchased in New Zealand and those at which it is sold in this country should, accordingly, be addressed to the President of the Board of Trade.