asked the Minister for Supplies whether he is exercising the powers of inspection under Article 31 of the Emergency Order, 1939, for the purpose of satisfying himself in regard to the quantities of any specified commodity stored in any premises; and, whether he is prepared, on the receipt of information that stocks of sugar have been accumulated in specified premises for the purpose of forcing up prices, to take proceedings for preventing the sale at enhanced prices of sugar unreasonably withheld from the public during the past two months.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Inspection of Premises.
Article 31 of the Emergency Powers Order, 1939, contains enabling provisions only, and an order would require to be made under that article before an inspection, for the purposes indicated by the Deputy, could be carried out. No such order has been made. If I am furnished with information that stocks have been accumulated for the purpose mentioned in the second part of the question, I will have the matter examined with a view to seeing what action should be taken.
Would the Minister consider the advisability of making such an order as a precautionary measure even?
It will be made if the need arises.
But only when it arises.