§ Mr. David Priceasked the Secretary of State for Energy what has been the increase in the price of Middle East crude oil since the present Government came into power; and what have been the increases in the retail prices of petrol, diesel, furnace oil, electricity and 676W gas to the British consumer over the same period.
§ Mr. John MooreThe average fob price of Middle East crude oil increased by 83 per cent. from May 1979 to mid-April 1980.
Based on information collated for the general index of retail prices the percentage increases in fuel prices to the domestic sector from 15 May 1979 to 15 April 1980 were as follows:
Motor Spirit 51 Paraffin and Heating Oil 50 Gas 11 Electricity 20 The percentage increase in fuel prices to manufacturing industry are based on the results of a quarterly survey of large industrial consumers during the periods April-June 1979 and January-March 1980. The panel used for the former period comprised some 800 consumers which was augmented during the latter part of 1979 to incorporate a further 100 consumers.
Consequently the percentage increases, given below, include any effects due to this change.
Heavy Fuel Oil 53 Gas Oil 50 Gas 25 Electricity 19 The average price of petrol and derv to industrial consumers increased by 51 per cent. and 41 per cent. respectively from May 1979 to April 1980. This information is based on the published schedule inner zone prices—inclusive of duty but exclusive of VAT.