No statistics are available which would enable a single reply to be given to this question. It is estimated, however, that £1 in 1950 will purchase the same quantum of essential goods (including rent) at retail prices as 10/11 in 1939, while for goods purchased at wholesale prices and for goods purchased at agricultural prices the relevant figures are 8/9 and 7/10, respectively. Those figures may be deemed to relate the prices current in the year 1939 to those in April-May, 1950.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Purchasing Power of Pound.
Mr. C. Lehane asked the Taoiseach if he will give an estimate of the purchasing power of the £ in the year 1939 compared with the year 1950.
Will the Parliamentary Secretary say if regard will be had to that factor in future in the consideration of lower-paid workers, civil servants and teachers?
That is a separate question.