§ Mr. Austin Mitchellasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection what plans he has for further references to the Price Commission.
§ Mr. HattersleyI have asked the Price Commission to examine and report on the prices, costs and margins in the importation and distribution of bacon. Wholesale bacon prices have fallen, and I am concerned that consumers should benefit from a corresponding fall in retail prices. I wish to have a factual report examining the prices and costs at the various stages in the distribution chain, in order to check that the situation is not being exploited. The decision to make this reference does not imply that profit margins are excessive.