HC Deb 05 May 1947 vol 437 c2W
35. Mr. J. Morrison

asked the Minister of Food what reply he has made to the communication sent to him by the Fruit and Vegetable Trade Association of Importers, Distributors and Salesmen, giving the reasons for the high prices charged for fruit and complaining of the range of middlemen introduced into the chain of distribution by his Department during the war.

Dr. Summerskill

I do not share the view held by this association that the shortage of supply and the necessity to conserve our financial resources have alike largely disappeared and that, therefore, the need for control no longer exists. As, however, my right hon. Friend has said in the House, we are anxious to simplify our food controls as far as we can while maintaining fair prices and distribution.