asked the Taoiseach the percentage increase in the cost of (a) bread, (b) meat, (c) domestic transport, and (d) domestic fuel since 1st November, 1967.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Price Increases.
16.
The only information available concerning the percentage change in the actual retail prices of various commodities and services is that obtained quarterly in connection with the compilation of the Consumer Price Index. The latest available data are those collected for the mid-November, 1967 index. The results for mid-February, 1968 will be available about mid-March.
Surely it is not unreasonable to ask in respect of bread what the increase in price was, because it is subject to the sanction of the Minister for Industry and Commerce? Surely we do not have to wait until March to know the percentage increase in the price of bread?
They are getting confused now with the referendum. More attention should be paid to the price of bread.
(Interruptions.)
The consumer price index is compiled quarterly for mid-February, mid-May, mid-August and mid-November——
Which question is this?
No. 17.
Question No. 17.
It was not called. Could I put this further to the Parliamentary Secretary, the prices of these commodities are under fairly strict control by the Minister for Industry and Commerce, and surely it should be possible to say what percentage increase there has been, in accordance with his approval or otherwise?
The percentage increase will be available——
In March.
——for mid-February in mid-March.
After the by-elections.
It is you who have to call the by-elections, not we.