§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection (1) to what extent he estimates the retail price index and cost of living has or will rise as a result of the rise in the price of biscuits, cereals, cakes, cheese, custard, honey and lard, together with the price rise of 2,225 foodstuffs since 1st January 1978;
(2) whether he is aware that during the month of January 1978 there were recorded increases in the price of biscuits, breakfast cereals, cakes, cheese, custard, honey, lard and 2,232 other food items; whether he will give similar details for the month of February; and what action he has taken or intends taking to reduce the price of these and other foodstuffs in view of the fall in inflation.
§ Mr. MacLennanThe annual increase in the retail food index was 7.1 per cent, in January 1978, the lowest such figures since July 1972. Thus, although the price of a number of food items has risen in recent months the rate of increase has fallen considerably. Details of increases in retail food prices between mid-January and mid-February will be available when the retail price index for February is published on 17th March.
Particular price increases are a matter for the Price Commission.