§ Sir W. de FRECEasked the Minister of Agriculture if in Lancashire milk is being sold at some places at 5d. and 6d., in Manchester at 7d., at Hurst, Ashton-under-Lyne, at 9d., and elsewhere at 11d. per quart; whether there is any reason for the variation in these prices; whether from the agricultural standpoint the higher charges are justified; and whether, if not, he will make representations to the farmers' associations concerned?
Sir A. BOSCAWENI have no information as to the particular instances to which my hon. Friend refers, but I presume that the prices in question are those charged by local farmers, or farmers' associations, and are retail prices, including cost of delivery, credit, etc. Many other considerations, therefore, have to be taken into account besides the actual cost of production of milk. I am not satisfied that any useful purpose would be served by making representations as suggested by the hon. Member.