HC Deb 25 November 1947 vol 444 cc268-9W
Sir W. Smithers

asked the Minister of Food if he is aware that the haphazard way of delivering potatoes to merchants under their allocations does not enable them to clear the potatoes from the railway trucks and involves a demurrage charge of 1s. 3d. per ton; and if he will reimburse the merchants for the expense thus incurred.

Mr. Strachey

It is not always possible to arrange that merchants' orders are delivered at regular intervals but when there is "bunching" of wagons for which the merchant is not responsible my Department will relieve him of demurrage charges.

Sir W. Smithers

asked the Minister of Food if, in view of the further letter which has been sent to him, he will take steps to see that potato bags, whether belonging to merchants or the Ministry of Food, are used to the best advantage; and it he will make a statement.

Mr. Strachey

Potato bags in the hands of the Ministry are used to the best advantage. We have no control over merchants' bags. The letter referred to by the hon. Member raises a number of points and I am replying to them in detail.

Sir W. Smithers

asked the Minister of Food if, when making allocations of potatoes to merchants, he will arrange for their transport and prompt delivery.

Mr. Strachey

Following trade practice, the wholesaler takes delivery of railborne supplies from Ministry stocks at town railhead. Transport to his premises is arranged by him and an allowance is made in the Ministry's selling price based on average cost. When potatoes are

AVERAGE RETAIL PRICE OF TURNIPS, PARSNIPS AND SWEDES.
November 1946. September 1947. First half November 1947.
Turnips … … … … … 1d. to 3d. 2d. to 4d. 1½d. to 4d.
Parsnips … … … … … 2d. to 6d. * 4d. to 6d.
Swedes … … … … … 1d. to 3d. 2d. to 3d. 2d. to 3d.
* No parsnip prices are available for September this year, as the season was late.