§ Mr. F. Willeyasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how far, when he made his calculation that the effect of the reduction in the food subsidies may involve an average cost per head of the population of Is. 6d. a week, he made allowance for reductions in rations.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerThe calculation of ls. 6d. a week on a ration book was made on an estimate of ration levels for 1952–53. A calculation based on the present actual level of rations would give about the same figure.
§ Mr. F. Willeyasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will give an estimate of the amount of the food subsidy which is necessary on an average to lower the interim cost-of-living index one point.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerDuring 1951–52 the subsidy cost of one point in the interim index of retail prices (which varies according to the food considered) averaged between £40 million and £50 million. There is no reason to expect any substantial change in 1952–53.