asked the Taoiseach if he will state the effect which the increases during the present year in the prices of bacon, eggs, bread, meat, flaked oatmeal, coffee, soap, wool and woollen goods have or will have on the current cost-of-living index figure.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cost of Foodstuffs and Woollen Goods.
Major de Valera
The latest available data for the interim cost-of-living index (essential items) relate to mid-August, 1950. The index for mid-November is at present being computed.
Comparing the index numbers for mid-August, 1949, with mid-August, 1950, the increases in the prices of the items bacon, other meat, flaked oatmeal, coffee, knitting wool and woollen goods accounted for a rise of 1.2 per cent. A decrease in the prices of eggs was responsible for a decline of 0.1 per cent. There was no change in the price of bread. Knitting wool and woollen goods accounted for more than half of the increase of 1.2 per cent. indicated above. Expenditure on soap is not included in the interim index.
Major de Valera
Did I understand the Parliamentary Secretary to refer to a decrease in the price of eggs?
A decrease.
Major de Valera
At 5/6 a dozen?
Of course, the Deputy is aware that a seasonal increase takes place at this time of the year.
Major de Valera
I asked about the current index.
Agricultural prices are embarrassingly satisfactory.