asked the Minister for Supplies if he is aware of the exorbitant prices asked for second-hand perambulators, according to advertisements in the public Press, and whether, in view of this, he will institute price control for second-hand perambulators.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Price of Perambulators.
Mr. Byrne
asked the Minister for Supplies if he is aware of the scarcity of perambulators at a suitable price and of high prices demanded for existing stocks of new and second-hand perambulators; and if he will see that additional supplies will be made available at a price suitable to the means of the average citizen.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 10 and 11 together. I am aware that there is a scarcity of perambulators, due to the difficulties which have been experienced for a considerable time past in obtaining supplies of raw materials for manufacturing purposes. There are no indications that the position in regard to supplies or these materials will improve. I am aware that high prices have been asked for second-hand perambulators. Some complaints have been received in my Department and have been investigated, with satisfactory results. The question of fixing maximum or ceiling prices for perambulators is under consideration, but owing to the wide differences in type and quality serious technical difficulties present themselves and it is not clear yet as to how they can be surmounted.
Mr. Byrne
Is the Minister aware that at the present moment as much as £10 is being charged for pramettes, otherwise known as go cars, and that £20 is being charged for the most ordinary type of perambulator? In another part of this country arrangements have been made and permits have been given to import prams. Would the Minister do likewise so as to provide that additional perambulators are placed at the disposal of our people at a reasonable price?
There is no possibility that the position in respect to the supply of these materials will improve.
Mr. Byrne
Will the Minister allow space so as to enable adequate supplies to be obtained?
It is not a question of space.
Is the Minister aware that second-hand pramettes have been offered for sale at as high a price as £35? I have particulars of an advertisement which appeared in the public Press recently.
Any individual who considers that he or she has been overcharged for a perambulator or any other article can avail of the services of my Department to have the complaint investigated. It is obvious, however, as stated in the reply, that the fixing of ceiling prices for perambulators is a matter of considerable difficulty. Perambulators are not like bicycles. There is a wide variety of design and quality and the fixing of ceiling prices may tend only to raise the price for certain types.
Mr. Byrne
Will the Minister issue licences for the importation of prams?
There is no need for licences.
Mr. Byrne
They can be imported.
Of course, they may be imported.