§ 78. Mr. Lewisasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that during the year ended December, 1952, the prices of carpets increased by 16½ per cent., of decorated pottery by 50-75 per cent., of silver-plated cutlery by 25 per cent., of electric lamps by 15 per cent., of heavy kitchen equipment by 10-15 per cent., of light kitchen equipment by 15-20 per cent., of furniture by 9-15 per cent., and of washing soda by 20 per cent.; and whether he will therefore introduce or reintroduce price control on these articles.
§ Mr. H. StraussWithout accepting the hon. Member's figures, my right hon. Friend is aware that the prices of certain household goods rose during 1952, and that the prices of others fell, but does not consider that this calls for the imposition of price control.
§ Mr. Lewisasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that, in the year ended December, 1952, detergents and cleansers have risen by 7 per cent., glassware has risen by 10 per cent., floor polishes have risen by 9 per cent., ink has risen by 50 per cent., laundry charges by 4½ per cent., linoleums and floor coverings by 7½ per cent., metal polishes 15 per cent., paints and distempers 7½ per cent., shoe polishes by 12½ per cent., and toilet soaps by 12½ per cent.; and whether he will, therefore, introduce or reintroduce price control on these articles.
§ Mr. H. StraussWithout accepting the hon. Member's figures, my right hon. Friend is aware that the prices of certain household goods rose during 1952, and that the prices of others fell, but does not consider that this calls for the imposition of price control. The maximum price of one article mentioned is still controlled.