§ Mr. Brothertonasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection what is his estimate of the effect on the retail price index if the European Commission replaces vinegar made with non-brewed condiment with wine vinegar.
§ Mr. MaclennanNo proposals to this effect have been put forward by the Commission. A prohibition on the use of synethic acetic acid—non-brewed condiment—for human consumption would be likely to have adverse effects on the cost of foods in whose manufacture or garnishing it is currently used, but it is not possible to give a precise estimate until specific proposals are made.
§ Mr. Brothertonasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection what representations he has received concerning proposals from the European Commission to prohibit the use of non-brewed condiment in vinegar.
§ Mr. BishopI have been asked to reply.
488WI refer the hon. Member to the reply given to my hon. Friend the Member for Stalybridge and Hyde (Mr. Pendry) today.