asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether his decision to restore trading licences to traders from whom they had been withdrawn, following their conviction in the courts for offences against price control and rationing regulations, implies that licences will not be withdrawn from traders convicted of similar offences in the future; whether he is satisfied that the penalties which may be imposed by the courts will be sufficient deterrent against black-marketing; or whether he has in contemplation any additional measures to protect the public against such practices.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Restoration of Trading Licences.
The decision to restore cancelled licences does not imply that it is intended to limit the action which will in future be taken to afford adequate protection to the public against breaches by traders of price control and rationing regulations. Proceedings will continue to be taken against offenders in the courts and, if the circumstances so require. I will not hesitate to avail of the powers which have been conferred on me by the Oireachtas.