asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce (a) if he will state the conditions under which steel-pronged farm forks are imported; and (b) whether he is aware that large quantities of such forks have been recently imported from Sweden, and that their continued importation will have an adverse effect on the manufacturing trade here; and, if so, what action he proposes to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Steel-Pronged Farm Forks.
There are at present no restrictions by way of import quota or customs duty on the importation of steel-pronged forks. The duty of 50 per cent. on hay forks, manure forks, digging forks, potato forks and stone forks was suspended in April, 1942, and the suspension has been continued to 31st March, 1950.
I am aware of the extent of imports from Sweden and other countries and of their effect on home manufacturers. This matter is at present being considered by the Industrial Development Authority, who are awaiting information promised by the manufacturers concerned.