asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether, owing to the improvement in the Electricity Supply Board position, he will now allow to remain open until 9 p.m. all sweet, confectionery and tobacco shops, which at present have to close at 8 p.m.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Confectionery and Tobacco Shops.
It is not proposed in present circumstances to amend the Emergency Powers (Early Closing of Shops) Order, 1942, in the manner proposed in the question. I should point out that, in addition to electricity, such establishments use gas, kerosene and candles, and until these commodities are in unrestricted supply, the maintenance of the present hours appears to be the fairest course and is, I believe, desired by the majority of traders concerned.