§ 19. Mr. W. THORNEasked the President of the Board of Trade if he can give any reasons why butter, cheese and sugar and other consumable articles have gone up in price; and if any notice has been taken, by the officials who make out the cost-of-living returns from time to time, about the jumps in the food prices?
§ Sir P. LLOYD-GREAMEI am not aware of any recent movements in the 215 prices of butter and cheese of an unusual character at this season of the year. In the case of sugar the rise price in this country has followed the market movements in the United States where there is said to have been a considerable increase in the consumption of sugar. With regard to the second part of the question, I am informed that changes in the retail prices of butter, cheese and sugar are taken into account in the compilation, by the Ministry of Labour, of the cost of diving index number.
§ Mr. THORNEDo the gentlemen who compile these returns from time to time ever consult any of the wives of the working classes in any direction?
§ Sir P. LLOYD-GREAMEI am not sure of that, but I understand that very careful consideration was given to the original items under which the figures are fixed. The cost of these items is, I understand, collected from all over the country.
§ Mr. THORNEWill the right hon. Gentleman consult his own wife about this?
§ Sir P. LLOYD-GREAMEI always do, Sir.
Major WHELERWill the right hon. Gentleman, as soon as possible, consult with the Minister of Agriculture, so that we may get information as to retail prices, the lack of which is causing great inconvenience?
§ Sir P. LLOYD-GREAMEI will represent that to my right hon. Friend.