Land Commission Bill (Costs)

HC Deb 28 June 1966 vol 730 c1577

37. Mr. Murton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why the purchase price of the Land Commission Bill has risen by 11 per cent, in a period of five months.

Mr. MacDermot

Because the pricing scales of Parliamentary Papers were increased in April 1966.

Mr. Murton

Would this not have been an ideal opportunity for the Government to demonstrate their determination to keep down rising costs through increased productivity?

Mr. MacDermot

Yes, but where costs rise, on occasions, it is necessary to increase prices. These prices have been increased over the years, under both Governments. As for this publication, the hon. Gentleman may be assured that there is some increased value for money, as the size of the Bill has increased.

Sir C. Osborne

Does this further evidence of increased prices mean that the Chancellor has abandoned all hope of ever controlling inflation?

Mr. MacDermot

No, Sir.

Sir C. Osborne

Then what is he doing about it?