§ Mr. Grocottasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection what action he proposes to take in the light of the recent rise in tea prices.
§ Mr. HattersleyI have 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 of tea. Recent increases in retail prices have been substantial. I wish to have a factual report on the reasons for these developments and an authoritative check that the situation is not being exploited. The decision to make this reference does not, however, imply that profit margins are excessive.