Major BARNESasked the Prime Minister if consideration is given to the effect on prices in determining the quantities of commodities belonging to the Government which at any time are to be placed on the market through the agency of the Disposal Board, the Ministry of Food, or any other Government Department; and, if so, whether the policy of the Government on such occasions is to maintain, increase, or lower market prices?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe sales policy must be governed by the fluctuations in the market values of the day. While no attempt is ever made to increase market prices, it is necessary to exercise care in the disposal of large surplus stocks in order not to break the market and to avoid playing into the hands of profiteers.