asked the Taoiseach with reference to the consumer price index the number of pence required on 5 July 1977 to purchase the cross section of goods and services costing one punt today.

On the basis of the consumer price index, which is calculated in respect of mid-February, mid-May, mid-August and mid-November each year, it is estimated that 81.4p would be required at mid-August 1977 to purchase the same quantum of goods and services as £1 at mid-August 1979. Mid-August 1979 is the latest date for which the consumer price index is available.