HC Deb 09 March 1953 vol 512 cc822-3
17. Miss Burton

asked the Minister of Food the increased cost per person, per week, for rationed and other subsidised foods since 10th March, 1952, to the latest convenient date; and whether he will name any foods rationed or subsidised on the first-named date which are not included in the final estimate of increase.

The Minister of Food (Major Lloyd George)

About 1s. 31½d., excluding tea and gammon, on ration levels at 22nd February, 1953.

Miss Burton

If those two exceptions were added to the estimate, would they not bring the estimated increase above 1s. 6d. per person per week? Secondly, does not the Minister's answer make absolute rubbish of the statement by the Government that the cost of living has remained stable for the past few months?

Major Lloyd George

The cost-of-living indices, including the increases in the cost of food, have been announced publicly. If the tea and gammon which were on ration on that date were added, the figure would come to just over 1s. 5d.

Mrs. Mann

Can the Minister give the increase per person consequent on the withdrawal of the subsidies, apart from rationed goods?

Major Lloyd George

I have answered the Question on the Order Paper. If the hon. Lady wants further information, I shall be very glad to let her have it.