§ 2. Sir G. Nabarroasked the Minister of Power, having regard to the need for stability of prices as set out in the Budget, what steps he is taking to have urgent consultations with the boards of nationalised industries to prevent further price increases for domestic fuels, including coal, gas, electricity, fuel-oil and petroleum products, including paraffin; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GunterPrice changes by fuel producers in the public and private sectors are subject to the criteria set out in the White Paper on Productivity, Prices and Incomes Policy in 1968 and 1969 (Cmnd. 3590). The White Paper lists the products for which arrangements are being continued for fuel producers to give me early warning of proposed price increases.
§ Sir G. NabarroHas not the right hon. Gentleman noted that the nationalised boards, notably electricity and gas, are leading the field in price increases since devaluation and that all these boards are now knocking up their prices steeply? What action is he taking?
§ Mr. GunterThe price increases announced by my predecessor were considered justifiable.