asked the Taoiseach the probable rise in the consumer price index for the year 1968.

The latest figure available for the consumer price index is that for mid-August, 1968 which was 7 points, to base August, 1947=100, or 3.6 per cent above the November, 1967 level. The index figure for mid-November, 1968 is being compiled at present and will be available by the end of this week.

Is the Taoiseach not in a position to assess the effects of the recent supplementary Budget and other price rises and to give a reply which includes the word used in the question—"probable"? In other words, can the Taoiseach give an estimate of what the increase will be?

At the end of next week. In a week's time.