I understand that the Minister for Finance desires to say a few words on the price of pipe tobacco.
Committee on Finance. - Price of Pipe Tobacco—Statement by Minister.
On the question of the price of tobacco, it has been represented to me that a misunderstanding exists with regard to my reference in the Budget statement to the possibility of a reduction in the price of certain classes of pipe tobacco. It seems that some of the public are under the impression that that reduction is now in operation. Such is not the case, I said in my speech that I hoped that, if the Revenue Commissioners and the manufacturers of tobacco, in consultation, could work out a scheme for the implementation of my wish to have a reduction in the price of certain pipe tobaccos, it would come into operation soon. The Revenue Commissioners and the manufacturers of tobacco are in consultation, and I feel certain that they will agree upon a scheme, and that soon the price of certain pipe tobaccos will be reduced, as I suggest. When that agreement has been reached, it will be duly announced and the public will be informed, but it is not in operation yet.
The Dáil adjourned at 2.5 p.m. until 3 o'clock on Wednesday, 15th May.