asked the Minister for Supplies whether he is aware that there is an acute shortage of agricultural machinery, and, if so, whether he will urge on the Government the desirability of removing tariffs and restrictions on imports of agricultural machinery.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Agricultural Machinery.
I am aware that home manufacturers cannot meet the full demand for agricultural machinery, but it is anticipated that they will be able to produce fairly satisfactory supplies of essential types of horse-drawn machinery. The Customs duties on agricultural machinery and parts have been suspended for some time and there are, therefore, no restrictions now on the importation of such machinery.
When was the Customs duty removed?
In July, 1941.
Yes, when it was no longer possible to get people to send in machinery.
The Deputy has asked me if I will remove a duty which was removed nearly two years ago.
Are there any other restrictions on the import of machinery?
I have said that there are no restrictions upon the importation of such machinery. Does the Deputy understand that?
I am glad to hear that.
From what articles of agricultural machinery was the duty removed within the last month?
None.
Will the Minister say——
Question No. 8.
I do not believe the Minister's answer is true.
I draw your attention, Sir, to Deputy Dillon's remark.
I did not catch the remark.
I said that I did not believe the Minister's answer was true.
The Deputy may not accuse the Minister of not telling the truth.
It is a singularly incorrect reply.
If the Deputy limited himself to asking supplementary questions, he would be in order. Criticism of a Minister's reply is not in order.
You cannot criticise a Minister now—the censor will not allow it.
That interjection is equally out of order.
It is the type of intelligent remark one would expect from Deputy Davin.
It is true anyway. Ask the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defensive Measures.