THE ECONOMY: Up Again

The Bureau of Labor Statistics cost-of-living index inched up one-tenth of 1% last month to 114.6 (1947-49=100), thus ending a slight down trend which has extended over the past three months. Reason: 1955's new auto models, which hit the market with slightly higher prices and lower trade-in allowances from dealers than on last year's cars. Thus the boost affected only those who bought a new car. For the rest of the U.S., living costs declined slightly.