§ Mr. Lewisasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware that, since December, 1958, there has been a continuing fall in the world price level of almost all the basic foods; and, as these falling prices have not been passed on to the consumer, what action he proposes to take, otherwise than by price control, to prevent the continuing rise of retail food prices.
§ Mr. GodberMy right hon. Friend is not aware of any significant decrease in146W world food prices over the last four weeks. If a comparison is made over a longer period, the facts are that during 1958 consumers did benefit from lower import prices of a number of foods, although the effect of this has been obscured by higher seasonal prices for some home-produced foods and by increases in processing and distribution costs. My right hon. Friend sees no need for any further action.