§ 3. Mr. Raphael Tuckasked the First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Economic Affairs what steps he has taken since the removal of the import surcharge to secure the reduction of prices, particularly those of petrol, which were increased by reason of the surcharge; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Frederick LeeA special approach has been made by Government Departments to the trades chiefly concerned to ensure that they are fully aware of the need to reduce prices wherever possible. Petrol prices were not affected by the surcharge.
§ Mr. Raphael TuckIs not this most unsatisfactory? Does not my right hon. Friend remember the bland assurances given at the time that the import surcharge was announced that the price increase would be only temporary until the import surcharge was taken off? Does he not further remember the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs, on 1st December last, saying that there was a 1805 duty to reduce prices in appropriate cases? Is this not becoming a public scandal?
§ Mr. LeeI expect there will be more reductions in prices as stocks run out. In fact, there have already been important reductions, in fibre board containers, cameras and wines and spirits, and, as I said, there are still price reductions to come.