asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether his attention has been drawn to price discrepancies varying from 19 per cent. to 46 per cent. between Irish and English assembled motor cars of the Rover, Morris, Wolseley, Standard, Hillman and Austin type; and whether he will cause inquiry to be made into the reason for the excessive difference between the Irish and English price of these cars.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Irish and English Motor Car Prices.
The difference in prices between Irish and English assembled motor cars is a matter to which the Prices Commission has given and is giving attention. As the Deputy was informed in reply to his question on this subject on the 7th December last, the prices of certain makes of cars had already been reduced following the inquiries which had been made by the Prices Commission. Prices of certain other cars have been reduced in the meantime and the commission has not yet completed its investigations in the matter.
The Deputy should understand, however, that parts of motor cars imported for assembly are subject to a revenue duty which must have the effect of keeping prices here higher than in Great Britain where no such duty is payable, and that in addition there are also certain other factors operating which make the cost of assembling cars higher in this country.
Arising out of the Minister's reply, may I take it that he accepts as correct the figures supplied to him by me, and that in fact the cars mentioned in my question are from 19 per cent. to 46 per cent. dearer in Éire than they are in Great Britain?
I would not like to say that the statement is not correct. I cannot say really.
May I inquire from the Minister if he intentionally advances a step—in saying he would not care to contradict me—from the old formula that I was misinformed?