§ 7. Mr. Lewisasked the Minister of Labour details of the latest retail prices index; and how far this takes account of the increase in the prices of rationed foods made on 5th October.
§ Sir W. MoncktonAt 14th October, 1952, the Interim Index of Retail Prices was 138 compared with 136 at 16th September. This rise takes fully into account the increase in the prices of rationed foods made on 5th October. Full details will be published as usual in this month's issue of the Ministry of Labour Gazette.
§ Mr. LewisIs that not disgraceful, considering that the Government promised more than 12 months ago that they were going to bring down the cost of living and more than 12 months later the cost of 1567 living is going up? Is it not about time the Government did something about it or got out?
§ Sir W. MoncktonOf course one is sorry to see that the index is now at 138, but I would remind the House that it was at 138 in June and July, that it went down in August and September and has now gone up to 138.