HC Deb 26 July 1923 vol 167 cc702-3
56. Lieut.-Commander ASTBURY

asked the Prime Minister, considering the widespread feeling that the index figure does not truly represent the present cost of living, if he will take into consideration the setting up of a Select Committee to report on this question?

95. Mr. FLANAGAN

asked the Minister of Labour if, in view of the dissatisfaction generally expressed at the cost-of-living figures, he will consider the advisability of adopting a new system of arriving at these figures which will generate more confidence?

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

I am not prepared to admit that dissatisfaction with the cost-of-living index figure is general. With regard to the proposal to hold an inquiry, I would invite the attention of the hon. Members to the reply given on the 4th July to questions on this subject asked by the hon. Members for Plaistow and Whitechapel (of which I am sending the hon. Members copies), and to the reply to the hon. and gallant Member for Leith on the 18th July.

Lieut.-Commander ASTBURY

Is my hon. Friend aware that the primary cost of living for the working class is food; and, if he would go round the retail shops in our different constituencies, he would find that the cost of food to-day is 100 per cent. over pre-War?

Mr. BETTERTON

I am aware of the importance of the cost-of-living figures, but not of the general dissatisfaction. The whole of this matter was dealt with by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour in an answer about 10 days ago, and if my hon. and gallant Friend will look at that answer, he will, I think, find an answer to his question.

Lieut.-Commander ASTBURY

May I remind the hon. Gentleman of the statement given by his right hon. Friend to the "Manchester Evening Chronicle," which was turned down as being quite absurd?

Mr. SHINWELL

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that one of the reasons for certain disputes that are now taking place is in regard to the figures of the cost of living, and will he not do something to bring about a readjustment in accordance with existing conditions?

Mr. BETTERTON

If the hon. Gentleman will look at the answer of my right hon. Friend to which I have just referred, he will see that my right hon. Friend had that point in his mind.