HC Deb 05 November 1946 vol 428 cc1211-2

The following Question stood upon the-Order Paper:

50. SIR W. SMITHERS

—TO ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the pur- chasing power of the at the latest available date as compared with 1900, taking into consideration the £334 million of food subsidy.

Sir W. Smithers

In asking this Question, may I say that since it was put down the amount of the food subsidy has increased to £350 million?

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Mr. Dalton)

Forty-five on 1st September, on the cost-of-living basis.

Sir W. Smithers

Will the Chancellor inform the people of this country quite clearly that unless there is more production, and at world competitive prices, the pound will go to nothing?

Mr. Walkden

Will my right hon. Friend also give us an idea of the size of the pay packet in 1900, the unemployment and the miserable standard of life of the people?

Mr. Dalton

This is going much wider than the original Question. I have been asked for a percentage, and the answer is, 45 per cent. of 1900.

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