HC Deb 29 January 1976 vol 904 cc291-2W
24. Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what effect have increased prices of beef, milk and potatoes had on the average weekly food bill for a family of four as shown in his Department's statistics up to the summer of 1975 compared with 1974; and what consultations he is having with responsible Ministers to reduce the impact of such increases on the families of working people.

Mr. Bishop

Comparisons for a family of four are not available. Average weekly expenditure on food in households with two adults and one or two children rose by 64p per head in the 12 months to the third quarter of 1975. 24p of this was due to higher expenditure on beef and veal, milk and potatoes. I would remind my hon. Friend of the Government's programme of food subsidies, which is estimated to save a family of two adults and two children about 68p per week. My right hon. Friend and I keep in close touch with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Prices and we take full account of the need to avoid unnecessary increases in retail food prices.