§ Mr. George Youngerasked the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs how many major industries have increased their prices by over 50 per cent. since October, 1964; and if he will publish a list of these industries.
§ Mr. HattersleyI have been asked to reply.
There is no central record of all price changes over this or any earlier period.
§ Mr. Youngerasked the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs whether he will allow all industries to increase their charges in order that they shall make a return of 8 per cent. on capital employed; and if he will undertake to publish a list of all those who have been given permission to do this.
§ Mr. HattersleyI have been asked to reply.
It would not be consistent with the policy on productivity, prices and in- 28W comes for an enterprise to increase its prices or charges specifically for the purpose of improving the rate of return on capital unless the requirements of the fourth criterion for increases in prices as set out in paragraph 16 of the White Paper Cmnd. 3590 were fully met. The second part of the Question does not therefore arise.