HC Deb 02 December 1971 vol 827 cc169-70W
Mr. Churchill

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the percentage difference in price of a large sliced loaf of bread in October, 1964, compared to the latest proposed price; what in the same period has been the percentage difference in the wholesale price of flour and wages in the bakery industry; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Anthony Stodart

Between October, 1964 and 6th December, 1971 (the date from which the price increases recently announced by the major plant bakers will apply), the recommended retail price of a large loaf of wrapped and sliced standard bread as sold by these bakers will have increased by 66 per cent. The latest quoted price for bakers' ordinary flour shows an increase of 22 per cent. over that for October, 1964 and basic wage rate under the national agreement for bakery production workers has (after taking into account a reduction in basic hours) increased by 79 per cent. The price of bread is of course influenced by other factors besides flour prices and bakery wages.

Mr. Churchill

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what was the price of a large sliced loaf of bread in old pence in October, 1964; and what is now the latest proposed price in new pence.

Mr. Anthony Stodart

The recommended retail price for a large loaf of wrapped and sliced standard bread as produced by the major plant bakers was 1s. 2½d. in October, 1964 and will be 10p once the recently announced price increase has become effective on 6th December.