HC Deb 18 February 1965 vol 706 cc1339-40
4. Mr. Gresham Cooke

asked the First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Economic Affairs whether, in his inquiry into increased prices, he intends to investigate the recent increases in the cost of publications charged by Her Majesty's Stationery Office.

Mr. Albu

No, Sir.

Mr. Gresham Cooke

Did not the hon. Gentleman say a few minutes ago that he might refer Government Departments to the National Board for Prices and Incomes? If so, is he aware that the Stationery Office put up the cost of the Ministry of Labour Gazette by 40 per cent. between December and January? Is not that a disgraceful example to the rest of industry in private control?

Mr. Albu

The hon. Gentleman misunderstands the purpose of my right hon. Friend's new board. It is not to say that there shall be no price increases but that they have to be justified. I understand that there has been no general increase in the price of Stationery Office publications since 1961.

Mr. Gresham Cooke

Should not this particular example be justified?

Hon. Members

No.