asked the Minister of Food how much it cost his Department to subsidise eggs in the four weeks ended 30th January, 1954; and the total sum involved from 1st April, 1953, to 30th January, 1954.

The cost of the present arrangements for eggs for the four weeks ended 30th January, 1954, was £5·2 million and for the period 1st April, 1953, to 30th January, 1954, £15·0 million.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that, in view of the apologetic attitude of the right hon. and gallant Gentleman the Minister of Food yesterday on the egg blunder, I have not the heart to press the matter again?

In view of the extensive capital made by Conservative speakers in the four recent by-elections about the 2½d. eggs, does not the hon. Gentleman think that the Conservative Party ought to return this £20 million to the Treasury?

I am sorry that the hon. Lady is so dismayed at such an abundance of eggs at low prices.