asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that the average price of household coal imported into the Saorstát in February, 1935, was under 22/6 per ton; whether the retail price of household coal in Dublin during the month of March was as high as 44/- per ton, and in provincial towns the price was even higher, and whether he is prepared to take action under the Control of Prices Act, 1932, to limit the margin of profit taken on imported coal by the distributors.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Retail Price of Coal.
The price of 22/6 per ton quoted by the Deputy is apparently the average c.i.f. price for the month of February for all household coal imported into the Saorstát, according to the official Trade Statistics. This price is not, of course, comparable for many reasons with the average retail price of household coal in any particular district.
The average retail price of household coal in Dublin in the month of March was, I am informed, much lower than 44/- per ton.
The Prices Commission has coal prices under constant review and the Deputy may be assured that the position is being carefully watched with a view to action if necessary.
Does the price referred to in the Minister's reply include the 5/- tariff which is at present being paid on imports of coal?
The Deputy had better read the reply I have given before asking a supplementary question.
The Minister does not reply.