58. Mr. Moltonasked the Minister of Food what alterations he is making as from 30th March, 1947, in the prices of oils and fats used for soap making, and in the wholesale and retail prices of hard, soft and other soaps; and whether any differentiation is being made between soap used for domestic and industrial purposes.
§ Mr. StracheyThe prices of oils and fats used in soap making were advanced by an average of 54 per ton on 30th March. Corresponding increases have been permitted in the prices of all soaps except hard soap. Sales of this for domestic use, and certain non-domestic uses, will continue to be subsidised in accordance with the Government's stabilisation policy. Hard soap used by commercial laundries and for industrial processing operations will not be subsidised.