HC Deb 06 November 1946 vol 428 c257W
65. Major Wise

asked the Minister of Food if he is aware that some brewers are rejecting bulk deliveries of barley from farmers on the pretext that they are not up to sample and thereafter accepting them at 5s. per quarter less; and if he will take steps to control the price of beer accordingly in order that the additional profits which the brewing industry is thus making at the expense of the producer may be curtailed.

Mr. Strachey

It is the normal practice for the buyer to reject deliveries of barley which they consider not up to sample. Brewers are free to buy barley on the open market at the ruling price, within the controlled maximum of 101s. per quarter. Five shillings difference in the cost of barley per quarter represents about one-tenth of a penny difference in the cost of a pint of beer.