§ Mr. Stallardasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether as part of his responsibility for consumer protection, he will initiate an inquiry into the amount of, and reasons for, the variation in the price of beers in public houses in the inner London area.
§ Mr. GodberSuch variations have always existed, and are due to a variety of factors. I do not think that such an inquiry is necessary.
§ Mr. Bishopasked the Secretary of State for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is aware that some firms in the licensed trade have announced increases on a number of drinks of up to 25 per cent. in time for the Christmas and New Year trade; and if he will take action, in view of the current policy of Her Majesty's Government.
§ Mr. GodberNo applications have yet been received from firms for authority to raise prices above those in force on 6th November. I expect any prospective price increases announced before that date to be deferred until a case showing that the increase is unavoidable has been made out to my Department. Authority for an increase will be given only in exceptional circumstances such as an increase in the world price of imported wines and spirits where the stocks held in this country are insufficient to allow an increase in the retail price to be deferred.