HC Deb 20 November 1958 vol 595 cc1292-3
1. Mr. Sparks

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer by what percentage the retail prices of food and fuel have increased in each year since 1951 showing each category separately as well as jointly, to the nearest convenient date in 1958.

The Economic Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. F. J. Erroll)

As the Answer to this Question is long and statistical I will, with permission, circulate the relevant information in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Sparks

Can the hon. Gentleman say why the retail prices of food and fuel have risen so steeply in recent years?

Mr. Nabarro

Ask the National Coal Board.

Mr. Erroll

I would ask the hon. Gentleman to look at the table.

Following is the information:

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. J. E. S. Simon)

There are no grounds for special treatment for retired teachers.

Mr. Holt

Does not the Minister think that some special steps are required, particularly in the case of older teachers, because such increases as have been given have been on a percentage basis and on pre-war salaries they have meant very little? Is he aware that in my constituency there is a retired woman teacher, age 74, who has a pension of only £78 16s. per annum?

Mr. Simon

I still cannot think that it would be right to single out teachers from other classes of pensioners.