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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 May 1943

Vol. 89 No. 18

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fixing of Price of Bread.

asked the Minister for Supplies (1) if all the relevant matters in connection with the cost of production, including flour, wages and distribution, were taken into account when the prices of batch and fancy bread were fixed by the Minister in September, 1942; and (2) whether the Minister is aware of any circumstances that have arisen since September, 1942, affecting the costs of manufacture and distribution, that would warrant a reduction or increase in the prices then fixed.

The price of batch bread is determined in accordance with the Bread (Prices) (No. 2) Order, 1937, made under the Bread (Regulation of Prices) Act, 1936, by reference to the standard price of flour. Since October, 1941, the bakers receive in addition the subsidy at the rate of one-halfpenny per 4 lb. batch loaf to cover increased costs of production.

In July, 1942, the price of fancy bread was controlled following on complaints received by my Department that excessive prices were being charged by bakers for such bread. The price was fixed after consultation with the Associations of Master Bakers and statutory effect was given to the practice in the trade to charge 1d. to 1½d. per 4 lb. loaf in excess of the fixed prices for batch bread.

The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.

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