asked the Taoiseach the increase in the cost of living in the most recent 12 months period for which figures are available.

The consumer price index increased by 21.0 per cent in the 12 months to mid-February 1981.

Is the Minister proud of that figure?

It is not a question of being proud of it. In 1975 it was 23.8 per cent.

Would the Minister agree that half of that is a direct result of Government action in two budgets?

I would not agree.

This is a statistical question.

Would the Minister agree that such figures weigh most heavily on the less well-off sections of our community?

I have already pointed out that this is a statistical question.

How much of the increase is due to direct Government action?

We have increased social welfare benefits also.

Is it not the case that the Government have wrecked the national understanding?