HC Deb 14 July 1943 vol 391 cc186-7
40. Mr. Evelyn Walkden

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can provide information on the cost of living, and prices of essential foodstuffs, in Aden, over two comparable periods since 1939?

Colonel Stanley

The cost-of-living index figures on 1st July, 1942 and 1943, were 129 per cent. and 254 per cent. respectively over the pre-war figure. I have no complete information of actual prices, but the Governor has reported the percentage increase in the principal foodstuffs, and these show that the rises in food prices are generally less than the rise in the general index. I am in correspondence with the Governor regarding the measures which it is practical to take to deal with the situation.

Mr. Walkden

Can the Minister say whether the Government's policy of pegging down prices which obtains in this country obtains in Aden? If not, why not?

Colonel Stanley

I am consulting on that very point regarding subsidisation. The hon. Gentleman will realise the great difficulty in Aden, which is a demand Colony. Prices, therefore, depend largely on the prices of the imported material.

Mr. John Dugdale

Have wages of Government employees been raised to a corresponding degree?

Colonel Stanley

Perhaps the hon. Member will put that Question on the Paper.

41. Mr. Evelyn Walkden

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can make any statement concerning the Aden settlement and the apparent food shortage; and what arrangements have been made to provide adequate emergency supplies for the needs of the citizens of Aden?

Colonel Stanley

I do not think that I can usefully add at present to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Plaistow (Mr. Thorne) on 1st July concerning this matter.

Mr. Walkden

Are the remedies which the Gentlemen referred to at that time considered satisfactory by the Department?

Colonel Stanley

My latest information was that the stock position was satisfactory.