§ 66. Mr. Mitchisonasked the Minister of Food what were his reasons for decontrolling the price of mackerel; what was the last controlled price of mackerel; what is the retail price now or at the last convenient date in London and in the East Midlands; and whether he is prepared to re-impose control at the last controlled price.
§ Dr. SummerskillThe price of mackerel was decontrolled because the market price during the summer season had been well below the statutory maximum price. Mackerel is not plentiful until summer and it was also my right hon. Friend's policy to encourage heavier landings in the autumn and winter months. I am glad to say that twice the quantity was landed in the last four months of last year compared with 1946. The controlled maximum retail price was 6½d. per lb. In London last week, retail prices ranged from 1s. 3d. to 1s. 8d. per lb. In the East Midlands, hardly any mackerel has been on sale recently; one consignment sold before Christmas fetched 1s. 4½d. per lb. retail These prices naturally reflect the general scarcity of all fish supplies at this time of year. While my right hon. Friend would be reluctant to re-impose control of mackerel prices, the possibility will be considered again in the course of the next review of fish prices generally.