§ 74. Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware that the manufacturers and wholesalers of margarine have recently announced reductions in the prices of this product but before such reduced prices have become effective retailers of this product have announced price cuts of amounts up to 4d. per pound; and whether he will introduce legislation to enable him to take proceedings against those responsible for this overcharging.
§ Mr. PeartI welcome the reductions manufacturers have made following a general downward trend in the price of their raw materials. I am also glad to see that some retailers are making cuts in advance. It is a common practice for retailers to sell selected commodities at reduced margins for limited periods. I have no evidence that retailers are in general working to excessive margins, and do not propose to introduce legislation.