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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 30 Nov 1949

Vol. 118 No. 11

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Prices Charged by Bacon Curers.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is prepared to hold an inquiry into the prices being charged by bacon curers for bacon, pig offals, sausages, puddings and cooked meats with a view to determining whether or not these prices are excessive.

I am keeping under review the prices charged for bacon by curers, wholesalers and retailers. The Deputy will, no doubt, be aware that control has only recently been removed in respect of the prices chargeable for bacon and other pig products, all of which are now in ample supply for the first time for some years. In these circumstances, competitive conditions should tend to ensure that only reasonable prices will be charged. I will, however, continue to watch the position closely, and if it is found that either bacon curers or distributors are endeavouring to take unreasonable profits, I shall feel constrained to consider the reinstitution of price control at all stages.

Is the Minister aware that, within recent months, the price paid to producers for bacon pigs has been reduced as much as £1 per cwt. and at the same time the price for bacon charged by bacon curers has been increased by a considerable sum? Is he aware that, in addition, bacon curers have tried to induce shopkeepers to increase the price of bacon and that in the past when bacon curers had an opportunity of quoting prices on the grading and classing system, they made excess profits of hundreds of thousands of pounds?

I am not so aware but I would be grateful for any detailed information which the Deputy could give me.

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