HC Deb 29 October 1952 vol 505 cc1917-8
29. Mrs. Mann

asked the Minister of Food what steps he has taken to ascertain the changes in prices of food and confectionery occurring since certain items have been de-controlled.

Dr. Hill

The food section of the Interim Index of Retail Prices already provides a suitable measure of price changes of controlled and de-controlled foods.

Mrs. Mann

Can the hon. Gentleman explain why the Minister of Food has stated that control has meant a cheapening of prices when experience is all to the contrary?

Dr. Hill

To take but one example, the de-control of tea has led to the cheapening of prices.

Mrs. Mann

Does the Minister consider that 5s. for a lb. of tea is something of which he ought to be proud?

Dr. Hill

There is tea available at 3s. 6d., 3s. 4d., 3s. and, in some cases, 2s. 6d. per lb.

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