§ Mr. Speedasked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity by how much food prices have risen in the last quarter expressed as an annual rate.
§ Mr. Dell:The rise in the average level of food prices, as measured by the General Index of Retail Prices, between 16th December, 1969 and 17th March, 1970 expressed as an annual percentage rate was 12.6 per cent. This reflects partly seasonal rises. The figures for corresponding periods one year and two years earlier were 12.8 and 6.7 per cent. respectively.
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§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity whether she is aware of the recent increases in the retail price of many commodities; what action her Department has taken or intends taking in respect of these price increases and with what results; and whether she will make a statement.
§ Mr. Dell:The Government have every intention of continuing the prices policy contained in the White Paper " Productivity Prices and Incomes Policy after 1969". (Cmnd. 4237). Where there is doubt that proposals for price increases satisfy the criteria set out in the White Paper, they will be referred to the National Board for Prices and Incomes.