The text on this page has been created from Hansard archive content, it may contain typographical errors.
Mr. Lee
asked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection if he will reconsider the phasing out of consumer subsidies in view of the accelerating character of inflation.
Mr. Maclennan
I fully appreciate the concern which is felt generally about rising prices, and my right hon. Friend has recently announced proposals for maintaining a system of price control in the future, as part of the Government's policy to combat inflation. However, in view of the need to reduce public expenditure, which plays a key rĂ´le in that policy, I regret that we cannot afford more money for consumer subsidies.