§ Mrs. Joyce Butlerasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection if he will refer the recent increases in tea prices to the Price Commission; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MaclennanMy hon. Friend will recall that last March I asked the Price Commission to examine and report on the prices, costs and margins in the importation, blending, packaging and distribution of tea, including the causes and effects of movements in world prices. The recent price increases by major companies have had to be prenotified to the Commission to determine whether they are justified under the terms of the Price Code.