§ Captain R. TERRELLasked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that one dairyman in Wiltshire throughout May and June received 3½d. a quart for the milk he sold to one of the leading combines, who retailed it at 8d.; whether there is any information showing that other farmers are receiving similar amounts; and whether he will cause inquiries to be made into the activities of a trading organisation which is obtaining such profits from the public?
§ Mr. McCURDYI am informed that an average price received by producers of milk in the south-western area during May and June was Is. 2d. per gallon. The price in this area is governed by the fact that a considerable proportion of the milk produced at this season is not retailed as liquid milk, but has to be converted into cheese and other milk products. As the hon. and gallant Member is no doubt aware, milk prices are no longer controlled by Statutory Order. Milk is, however, scheduled under the Profiteering Act, and a sub-committee appointed under that Act is at present engaged in an investigation of the organisation of the industry.