asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that the substantial increases in the price of meat in many provincial towns make it impossible for poor people to purchase it; if he has received complaints in this connection; and if, in order to safeguard the consumer, he will fix a price for meat which will enable the workers and the poorer sections of the community to purchase it.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Meat Prices.
There has been a seasonal increase in the prices of cattle and sheep throughout the country, with a consequent increase in the prices of beef and mutton. I have no reason to consider, having regard to the prices of cattle and sheep, that meat prices are excessive, nor have I received any appreciable number of complaints regarding meat prices in provincial towns. Between August, 1939, and February, 1947, the average live weight prices of prime cattle and sheep increased by over 100 per cent. and 200 per cent. respectively. Between the same dates, the retail prices of beef and mutton increased by 60 per cent. and 120 per cent. respectively. It is not possible to fix prices for meat without reference to the price of cattle and sheep. An attempt to enforce prices lower than present cattle and sheep prices would require would merely result in the stoppage of sales which would benefit nobody.
Is the Minister aware that in many provincial towns, mostly in the Midlands, the price of meat has been increased by butchers within the last fortnight or three weeks from 4d. to 7d. per lb. which puts meat altogether beyond the reach of the ordinary workingman? Would the Minister look into this matter in view of the seriousness of the situation?
If he can get meat at from 4d. to 7d. per lb. he should buy all he can.
A Deputy
He means that prices have increased by these amounts.
The Minister is ringing the changes now on him.
Prices of cattle and sheep have of course risen recently.