HC Deb 01 July 1974 vol 876 cc14-5W
Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for Trade in what commodities there is evidence of the development of international State cartels to facilitate high prices.

Mr. Deakins

In addition to oil, there have been reports of the formation of associations of certain producing countries related to bananas, coffee, copper, bauxite and mercury. Action to try to achieve or maintain price levels regarded as satisfactory to the countries concerned appears to be the main objective behind the formation of most or all of these bodies, though in several cases specific reference has been made to the interests of consuming countries.