§ Mr. Cledwyn Hughesasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will give the percentage increase in the price of the small loaf and the large loaf, respectively, since 18th June, 1970.
§ Mr. Anthony StodartBetween 16th June, 1970, and 19th October, 1971 (the latest date for which information is available from the Department of Employment's Index of Retail Prices) bread prices increased by the following amounts:
Per cent. White, 1¾ lb. wrapped and sliced 5.1 White, 1¾ lb. unwrapped 6.5 White 14 oz. 10.3 Brown 14 oz. 6.0 These figures do not take account of the price increases which the major plant bakers are proposing to make on 6th December.
§ Mr. Cledwyn Hughesasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what consultations took place between him and bread manufacturers before the recent increase in the price of bread; and what reasons were given for the increase.
§ Mr. Anthony StodartIn accordance with the arrangements which my right hon. Friend has with the industry, the major plant bakers informed him in advance of their announcement that they intended to increase their bread prices on 6th December. They explained that the increases were necessary because of substantial increases in the costs of production and distribution.