COST OF LIVING

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21167, 17 July 1940, Page 7

COST OF LIVING

RISE IN BRITAIN POTATOES AND MILK SUPPLIES FOR CHILDREN (Official Wireless) (Received July 17, 11.30 a.m.) RUGBY. July 16 On July 1 the official cost of living figures were 87 points above the level of July, 1914. compared with 81 points at June 1, a rise of six points, equivalent to rather more than three per cent. For food alone the index of July 1 was 68 points above the level of July, 1914, showing a rise of ten points, or over six per cent, since June. The rise in food prices was caused chiefly by price rises for potatoes and milk. The rise in the price of milk is the first, apart from seasonal changes, which has occurred since the outbreak of the war. Although the price to ordinary consumers has now risen it will not affect fhose for whom milk is essential. The milk in schools scheme takes care of those attending school, while under the national milk scheme set up by the Ministry of Food one pint of milk per head daily can be obtained by expectant and nursing mothers and children under five years of age, at 2d a pint, or free in the case of families with incomes below a certain limit.