asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has seen the reports published in the Press that an agreement has been arrived at between English Colliery proprietors and the Irish Coal Importers' Association, the object of which is to fix the price of coal to Irish consumers at a level higher than that hitherto prevailing, and if he will state the policy of his Department in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Prices of Imported Coal.
I have no information that any agreement fixing increased prices for coal in the Saorstát has been arrived at. But if Saorstát merchants do enter into a combination for the purpose of imposing unreasonable prices on the public, action will be taken to restrain such a combination.
Is the Minister of opinion that a virtual monopoly in the coal trade is in the public interest?
No.
Will the Minister state what is the policy of his Department in relation to a monopoly which, it is reported, has been established?
The report is queried.