§ Mr. BuchanI beg to ask leave to move the Adjournment of the House under Standing Order No. 9, for the purpose of discussing a specific and important matter that should have urgent consideration; namely,
the approval yesterday by the Price Commission of increases in food prices and the responsibility of the Government in this connection.This matter is specific, Mr. Speaker, because it comes from a specific body established by the Government to investigate and approve, and, perhaps more rarely, disapprove, of specific applications for price increases.It is specific because yesterday manufacturers of a wide range of specific foodstuffs, from meat to marmalade, were given approval to raise prices by specific stated amounts, ranging up to 14 per cent.
It is hardly necessary to stress the importance of this matter, as evidenced by today's exchanges. Every housewife and hon. Member knows that this is the key social issue that we are facing. Yesterday's decision will affect the wellbeing and the living standards of every family in this country. It is important also because recent figures suggest, at any rate, that expenditure on essentials is now beginning to outstrip the incomes of the working people of this country.
256 It is urgent because the decision was made only yesterday and because it is not subject to regulation, instruments or debate in the House or to other parliamentary control. Today, therefore, is the only opportunity that we have of raising this matter and of bringing about a scrutiny of this decision; that is, by moving the Adjournment of the House.
§ Mr. SpeakerThe hon. Gentleman was kind enough to write to me about this matter and to give me notice of his intention. I have studied his letter carefully. I have listened to what he has had to say. I have also had some regard to what has taken place in the House today. But my decision is a very simple one as to whether the matter should be debated today or tomorrow. In my view it would not be appropriate to have a debate on this matter today or tomorrow under Standing Order No. 9. Other ways must be found. I am afraid that I cannot grant the application.