asked the Minister for Finance whether, in view of the almost insignificant fall in the retail prices of articles in common use since the abolition of the excess profits tax, he has considered the reimposition of that tax, and, if so, with what result.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Excess Profits Tax.
I have had this question under review from time to time and it will be considered again when the next Budget is being prepared.
Has the Minister given regard to a statement issued by responsible trade union organisations that, of all the items which make up the national income, profits show the greatest increase and that the total amount is sufficient to permit of a decrease in prices, solely at the expense of profits?
That is one of the items to be considered—as well as the increased price of raw materials, which might offset some of the advantages.
Can I take it, then, that the Minister's earlier threat in regard to excess profits tax as a means to secure a reduction in prices is still effective?
The threat is still there.
It is one of the ten points.
So many of the ten points have been achieved that this may also be achieved.