(Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch
and Strathspey) (SNP): The cost of the most common family foods
has risen by nearly 30% in the past year alone, according to new
research by consumer group Which? The Governments of Ireland and
France have worked with retailers to reduce costs for families,
while the UK Government have sat on their hands. What discussions
has the Secretary of State had with Cabinet colleagues about how
to learn from our European neighbours and reduce the crisis in
people’s homes now?
The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (): What we are learning from our European neighbours is
that this is a common problem. In fact, food price inflation in
Germany, Portugal and other countries is higher than it is here.
Rather than intervening in markets, as some are spuriously
suggesting, and taking us back to the prices and incomes policies
of the 1970s, we have entered discussions with the supermarkets
some of which have recently suggested that they will be able to
lower prices, or lower the rate of increase in some prices, on
the more essential items.
Dame (Wallasey) (Lab): Food
inflation is rising by double the rate of inflation, and the rate
for basic foodstuffs—bread, pasta, milk—is even higher, often
going up by 40% or more. In my constituency, 38% of people have
skipped meals. Will the Secretary of State investigate the role
of sanctions and benefit inadequacy in a system in which people
cannot feed themselves?
: I thank the hon. Lady for her question. I have fond
memories of serving with her on the Treasury Committee.
We always keep sanctions under review, but I am currently
satisfied that they are broadly operating in an effective and
proportionate manner. The hon. Lady mentions inflation on
essential foods, and I point her to the cost of living payments,
which are very significant, equivalent to £3,000 per family over
the two-year period in which they will apply. The energy price
guarantee has been extended until June, and there is a rise in
the national living wage.
