HC Deb 09 July 1923 vol 166 c928
68. Brigadier-General COLVIN

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in computing the cost of living, the assessors base their calculations on the cheapest food obtainable or whether a certain standard of quality is insisted on?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTER of LABOUR (Mr. Betterton)

I have been asked to reply. The calculations for the retail index figures, which are made in the Ministry of Labour, are based on the averages of the prices charged in some 500 towns and villages for articles of the kind and quality most generally purchased by working-class families.

Mr. W. THORNE

In regard to the retail prices indicated in the "Labour Gazette," does the hon. Gentleman think it possible to purchase the articles in the shops at the prices given in the Gazette, except the cheapest muck in the market?

Mr. BETTERTON

On 9th July, an answer extending to four columns of the OFFICIAL REPORT dealt with the whole question. If there is anything in that long statement about which the hon. Member is in doubt, perhaps he will put down another question.

Mr. THORNE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that in the last "Labour Gazette," fresh eggs were marked at 1½d. each, and that you cannot get a new-laid egg under 2d.?