asked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection if he is yet in a position to authorise a survey by the Price Commission into variations in food and fuel prices between Scotland and the rest of the United Kingdom, including variations within Scottish regions; and if he will give a commitment to ensure implementation of any recommendations to resolve the situation.

I propose to include a study covering prices in Scotland among the next examinations which I shall ask the Price Commission to undertake. I am considering the terms of reference to this inquiry and its relationship to prices in other parts of the United Kingdom. I will need to see the Commission's findings before I can commit myself to acting on any recommendations they may make.