HC Deb 22 October 1991 vol 196 cc548-9W
Mr. Kilfedder

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will investigate the increase in the cost of a loaf in Northern Ireland.

Mr. Needham

Bread prices in Northern Ireland were investigated by the Office of Fair Trading in 1989 and I know of no reason to reopen the investigation.

Mr. Kilfedder

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will investigate the last increase in the price of calor gas in Northern Ireland.

Mr. Needham

I shall write to the hon. Gentleman as soon as possible.

Mr. Kilfedder

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will set up an inquiry into why the cost of living is higher in Northern Ireland than England; and if he will make a statement.

Dr. Mawhinney

While there are regional differences in some of the elements which contribute to the cost of living, the factors that influence living costs are much the same throughout the United Kingdom and the Government do not propose to set up an inquiry.

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