HC Deb 19 October 1949 vol 468 cc34-5W
Sir W. Darling

asked the Minister of Food what is the consumption per head in the United Kingdom of flour and oatmeal, respectively.

Mr. Strachey

In the year ended 30th June, 1949, the consumption per head in the United Kingdom, of flour was 232 lb. per head, and of oatmeal 7.9 lb. per head.

Sir W. Darling

asked the Minister of Food what is the cost to the baking trade of flour and oatmeal, respectively, per 280 lb. sack.

Mr. Strachey

National flour is sold to bakers at a fixed price of 52s. per 280 lb. delivered. This does not include the cost of bags. There is no fixed price for oatmeal but maximum prices are prescribed under the Oat Products (Control and Maximum Prices) Order, 1947. The maximum price prescribed for a sale ex mill is 101s. 4d. per 280 lb.; this price includes the cost of bags.

Sir W. Darling

asked the Minister of Food what is the annual cost of the subsidy on flour and oatmeal, respectively.

Mr. Strachey

The cost of the flour subsidy (including the wheat acreage payments) is estimated at approximately £91,500,000 for the current financial year. There is now no subsidy on oatmeal.