21. Mr. Leeasked the Minister of Food the respective prices of a number of basic foods in 1921 and at the present time.
§ Mr. StracheyThe Ministry of Labour Food Index, based on prices in July, 1914, as 100, touched a high point of 291 in November, 1920. This compares with 162 at present. Here are some examples of individual prices:
RETAIL PRICES (TO NEAREST ¼d.) (Per lb. unless otherwise stated). — 1st November, 1920. 31st May, 1947. s. d. s. d. Beef: British— Ribs 2 0¾ 1 3¾ Thin Flank 1 5¾ 9¾ Chilled or Frozen— Ribs 1 3¾ 1 1 Thin Flank 9¾ 6 Mutton: British— Legs 2 3¼ 1 5½ Breast 1 6¼ 8 Frozen— Legs 1 3½ 1 0 Breast 7 4 Bacon 2 9¾ 1 6½ Flour (per 6 lbs.) 2 2 1 3 Bread (per 3½ lbs.) — 9 (per 4 lbs.) 1 4 — Tea 2 9 2 10 Sugar (granulated) 1 2 3 Milk (per quart) 9¾ 9 Potatoes (per 7 lbs.) 11¾ 8½ Margarine 1 l¾ 9 Special 5 Standard Butter: Fresh 3 4 1 4 Salt Cheese 1 9 10 Eggs: Fresh (per dozen) 5 6 1 9 large 1 6 small Ministry of Labour Index of retail Food Prices: July, 1914 % 100 291 162 (at 1st May, 1947).