Price-Cutting (Canned Goods).

Oral Answers to Questions — Food Supplies. – in the House of Commons at on 21 January 1942.

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Photo of Mr Reginald Sorensen Mr Reginald Sorensen , Leyton West

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware of grievances existing with small shopkeepers respecting the alleged price-cutting of canned goods rationed under the Points Scheme; that, as they are not permitted to engage in collective buying, an inadequate margin within the price unfairly penalises them; and whether he will consider any representations made to him on the matter by organisations of that type of shopkeeper?

Major Lloyd George:

As I stated in reply to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Doncaster (Mr. Evelyn Walkden), on 9th December, there is nothing improper in any trader selling price-controlled foodstuffs at less than the maximum price which is prescribed by Order. I cannot agree that the trade margins which have been fixed by the Ministry are inadequate for any class of trader. I will, however consider any representations which my hon. Friend wishes to send to me.

Photo of Mr Reginald Sorensen Mr Reginald Sorensen , Leyton West

Has the Parliamentary Secretary had any representations from representative bodies on this point?

Major Lloyd George:

I do not think we have had any representations on this particular point, although there have been representations on other aspects of it.

Photo of Mr George Griffiths Mr George Griffiths , Hemsworth

Do these instructions mean that the maximum price is also the minimum price, whatever the profits?

Major Lloyd George:

The maximum price is the maximum price which may be charged. It is not a fixed price.