§ Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection what study she has made of the evidence supplied to her of the mass storage of potatoes with the aim of pushing up prices; if she will investigate this matter; and if she will make a statement.
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§ Mr. MaclennanThe evidence referred to was found to relate to normal storage by a potato processing firm. Such normal storage is not responsible for the present level of potato prices. Withdrawals from storage need to be phased over the season if supplies are not to be exhausted before the next crop. The present level of prices reflects the shortfall in last year's crop and the small proportion still remaining in stock. Imports of new potatoes, which deteriorate if stored, will now be an increasingly important part of total supplies until this season's home crop is ready.