HC Deb 11 July 1940 vol 362 cc1343-4
61. Mr. A. Edwards

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will consider the question of meeting all increased costs of raw materials, essential food-stuffs, freights, etc., by direct payment from the Exchequer and thereby stop the constantly-increasing cost of living?

Sir K. Wood

This is a proposal which I cannot adopt. It is open to many objections, as explained in the answer which was given to my hon. Friend's Question of 6th February last.

Mr. Edwards

Does not the Minister agree that this money has to be paid in the last stage, and would it not be an economy to pay it in the first stage so as not to have pay the additional cost plus a good many profits?

Sir K. Wood

The objections stated in the answer to which I referred were that it would stimulate consumption of all manner of commodities, increase the demand on our shipping and exchange resources, and place a large charge on the Exchequer.

Mr. Edwards

Does not the Minister realise the absurdity of that statement, and will he give it some consideration?

Sir K. Wood

I shall be glad to receive any further representations from my hon. Friend.