asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what total amount was paid in cost-of-living subsidies during 1946; and how much of that amount was paid in respect of imported foodstuffs.

The estimate for this financial year is £364 million for foodstuffs, of which £178 million is for imports. The cost in the calendar year 1946 would be somewhat less.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the prices being paid by the consumer for foodstuffs are becoming progressively out of relation to the changing value of money, and will he consider taking steps to lead the country, not too suddenly but gently, out of this fool's paradise?

I think "fool's paradise" is a rather tendentious description. The fact is that if foodstuffs are subsidised the cost of living is held lower than it otherwise would be and, to that extent, the purchasing power of money is sustained at a higher level than that at which it would otherwise stand.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the figure has risen from, I think, £335 million since last Budget Day, and how far is it to be permitted to rise in the future?

I cannot anticipate my next Budget Statement.

Is there any considerable reason why we should not have published in the Monthly Digest a detailed statement of each commodity that is subject to subsidies?

I would be very glad to look into that. I have no desire at all to conceal the situation. I think it is very desirable that it should be known and pondered upon, and I will consider whether this particular form of publication could be adopted. I am always prepared to answer questions in great detail on the matter in the House, and I frequently do so. There is nothing to conceal.