HC Deb 14 December 1948 vol 459 cc129-30W
115. Mr. Piratin

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in computing the cost of living the insurance contributions have been taken into consideration.

Mr. Isaacs

I assume the hon. Member's Question is directed to the items taken into account in the calculation of the Interim Index of Retail Prices. The answer is "No." The method of calculating the Index is described in a supplement to the Industrial Relations Handbook, paragraph 3 of which explains why these contributions are not included. I am sending the hon. Member a copy and I have placed two copies in the Library.