asked the Minister for Supplies whether he is aware that the London tea market is virtually closed, and that there has been delay in creating machinery for the distribution of stocks of tea from importers' stores in Great Britain to the wholesale trade in Éire, and further to ask if the Minister has taken or intends to take steps to ensure that normal supplies will continue to reach the trade in this country, so that the existing danger of a shortage may be averted.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tea Supplies.
I am aware that subsequent to the introduction of tea control in Great Britain the position was as indicated by the Deputy in the first and second parts of his question. Arrangements have now been made, at the instance of my Department, for the early release of a substantial supply of tea, and steps are being taken with the object of securing that normal supplies will be available in the future.