In April 1960, average weekly earnings in the UK were £14.10, according to Hansard, based on a 48-hour week. In October 1970, average weekly earnings for full-time male manual workers aged 21 and over were £28.05. 13 household grocery staples and how they have increased in price over the decadesBelow are 13 household staples and how they have increased in price over the decades. BananasA kilo of bananas cost on average 16.8p in 1970, 59p in 1980, 99p in 2000, and £1.02 in January 2025. Instant coffeeInstant coffee cost on average 22.7p per 100g in 1970, £1.01 in 1980, £1.88 in 2000, and £3.85 in January 2025.