§ 36. Sir Irving Alberyasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that the delay in permitting increases in prices to cover increased costs due to wages awards, advances in cost of coal, etc., has in some cases caused serious losses; and if he will take action to expedite necessary adjustments.
§ Mr. DaltonTo raise maximum prices automatically, whenever costs rise, would directly encourage inflation, and is contrary to the Government's policy. It is always open to any body of traders to make an application for an increase in prices, having regard to increases in costs. Such applications are dealt with as speedily as possible, in consultation with the Central Price Regulation Committee, but, as my hon. Friend will appreciate, requests of this kind must be very carefully examined and costings must be investigated, for increases in costs in some directions are not infrequently accompanied by decreases in others.
§ Sir I. AlberyIs my right hon. Friend aware that my purpose in asking the Question is to find out whether he will endeavour to expedite the matter and avoid any unnecessary delay?
§ Mr. DaltonYes, Sir.