asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state whether he has directed that the price of artificial manures be increased by 5/- per ton; and, if so, if he will give his reasons for directing such increase.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Price of Artificial Manures.
There is no increase in the retail prices of artificial manures and in the case of 30 per cent. superphosphate the price has been reduced by 30/- per ton as compared with last year. The manufacturers' prices have, however, been increased by 5/- per ton so as to reduce the distributors' margin from £1 to 15/- per ton, in view of the increased tonnage which will be handled by them this season. The manufacturers will not benefit by the increased price, as their profits are strictly controlled and the amounts thus saved will be utilised as a relief in the amount of subsidy payable by the Exchequer.
Can the Minister say when the artificial manure industry will be in the position to inform distributors as to what quantity of manures they may expect to get?
I could not. It depends entirely upon shipping facilities.
Would the Minister say why it is necessary to increase the manufacturers' prices?
The manufacturers' price is increased for the purpose of reducing the retailer's margin and so saving the Exchequer subsidy.
Does it mean an increase in the cost of the raw materials?
I have told the Deputy that the manufacturers will not benefit by the increased price, as their profits are strictly controlled and the amounts thus saved will be utilised as a relief in the amount of subsidy payable by the Exchequer.