HC Deb 26 May 1978 vol 950 cc759-60W
Mr. Cledwyn Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what has been the rate of inflation in St. Helena over the last two years.

Mr. Rowlands

According to the official index, retail prices on St. Helena increased by 67 per cent. between September 1975 and November 1977. Prices have been generally stable since that date. The rise in the overall cost of living including items not covered by the index has probably been somewhat lower.

Mr. Cledwyn Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will give details of the percentage increases in the salaries, wages and pensions of present and former Government employees in St. Helena over the last two years.

Mr. Rowlands

Salaries, wages and pensions of Government employees on St. Helena were increased by 12½ per cent. on 1st January 1977. A further award of 25 per cent. backdated to 1st January 1978 has just been approved.