§ Mr. W. THORNEasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that since the Tea Duty has been removed, the price of bacon has been increased by 2d. per pound in Hull and other towns; that the price of currants and sultanas has also been increased by 2d. per pound; and if he will refer the matter for inquiry to the Food Council?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERBoth wholesale and retail prices of bacon began to rise long before the removal of the Tea Duty, and, as stated in answer to a question in the House on 24th April, this rise was attributable to decreased supplies consequent on low prices obtained by producers last year. Since the date of that answer there appears to have been a check in the rise in price. I understand that the Food Council are watching the matter, and they will no doubt make a more detailed inquiry if they consider it desirable. I am not aware of any general increase in the price of currants and sultanas.