§ 53. Mrs. Mannasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is aware that the cost-of-living index for all items is now standing at 150; and if he will take steps to maintain stability in food prices, which are chiefly responsible for the large increase in the all-items index.
Mr. AmoryI am aware of the level of the cost-of-living index and of the benefits of stability of food prices, as in the prices of other goods and services. I am also aware that food consumption this year is running at a record high level with a strong and general demand for the higher qualities from all sections of the community. Food prices are greatly affected by weather and seasonal factors, and some of the increases in price have been due to those causes. Some have been due to increases in internal costs, such as transport and labour.
§ Mrs. MannIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that that is exactly what his predecessor told us? He said that with decontrol prices would find their own level. That was four years ago. When are they going to find their own level, and what will that level be?
§ Mr. BaldwinIs my right hon. Friend aware that food in this country is cheaper than in any other country in the world, although unless we produce food at a higher price we cannot pay the farm workers the wages they deserve?
Mr. AmoryFood prices in this country compare very favourably with the general level of prices in other countries.
§ Mrs. MannOwing to the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment.