asked the Minister for Supplies if he will state with reference to native root and vegetable seeds (a) prices paid to producers, (b) wholesale prices to the trade, (c) retail prices.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Native Root and Vegetable Seeds.
The only root seed prices fixed by Order are mangel, swede and turnip seed, and the prices fixed cover both native and imported seed. The wholesale prices for quantities over ten cwts., which are free on rail, and the retail prices are respectively as follows:—Mangel seed, £7 10/- per cwt. and 2/- per lb.; swede seed, £12 5/- per cwt. and 3/- per lb.; turnip seed, £8 16/- per cwt. and 2/3 per lb.
The prices paid to producers are not fixed by Order and generally average about 40 per cent. lower than the wholesale prices stated. The seedsmen produce and supply the original stock seeds to the growers and instruct them on production and care of the crop. They also inspect crops whilst growing, pay carriage on seed from the growers, clean, dry, test, and prepare the seed for sale. I have not so far found it necessary to control by Order the prices of other root and vegetable seeds.