asked the Minister for Finance if he will state (1) the increase in the cost-of-living index figure which would follow (a) the complete removal of the existing food subsidies and (b) their reduction by half; and (2) the total cost to the Exchequer required to offset completely the rise in the cost-of-living figure consequent on (a) the complete removal and (b) the reduction by half of the present food subsidies, on those drawing the old age, blind and widows' and orphans' pensions, infectious diseases, disability, unemployment assistance and unemployment benefit allowances, and on all other state pensioners and dependents.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Food Subsidies: Cost of Living.
1 (a) 3½ points
(b) 1¾ points.
2 (a) £1,400,000
(b) £700,000.