§ Mr. Haymanasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what decision he has now reached in regard to the milk industry's application for an increase in the price of Channel Islands milk.
§ Mr. PeartI have considered the further evidence from the industry and have discussed it with the Joint Committee of the Milk Marketing Board and the Central Milk Distributive Committee. I have concluded that some increase in the premium paid to producers of Channel Islands milk is needed to encourage an increase in supplies in the winter months. To provide the means for this, it has been decided to raise the maximum price of Channel Islands and South Devon milk by½d. a pint between October and March inclusive, with effect from the beginning of February, 1965. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland and I will be laying the necessary Order before Parliament in due course.
I have been reluctant to raise the retail price of a special milk which is in substantial demand, but I am convinced that it is necessary in order to prevent consumers from being kept short of what they want. This change does not of course alter the price of ordinary milk, which is always available.
I have also considered very carefully the application for an increase in the premium currently paid for distributing Channel Islands milk. My conclusion is that there is no case for an increase.