asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state, in regard to the importation of American flour: (a) whether the Economic Co-operation Administration has made it a condition that the imported flour must be sold as imported in its own bags and not mixed with home-produced flour, and, if not, by whom this condition was imposed on the millers, and why, and (b) the total profit which will accrue to Grain Importers (Éire), Limited, from the sale of American flour at the same price as home-produced flour, in respect of the 2,126 tons purchased to date and the further 1,500 tons allocated.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Flour Imports.
The Economic Co-Operation Administration has not laid down any conditions as to the manner in which the flour is to be sold. I see no reason, however, why extra cost should be incurred in having it remilled in this country. As the profit on the flour will be applied towards reducing the flour subsidy, this extra cost would have to be borne by the taxpayer.
The profit on the 2,126 tons already purchased is estimated at approximately £20,000, and, as I have already stated, this sum will be applied towards reducing the cost of the flour subsidy. The profit on the quantity yet to be purchased will depend on the type of flour purchased and its cost.
Will the Minister state if any of this imported flour has yet been sold in the State?
Yes.
Is the Minister aware that there is no legal authority for that price for imported flour?
No.
Will the Minister look into the matter in view of the obvious provisions of the Order made by the Minister for Industry and Commerce relating to the maximum price of flour which precludes expressly the charge of 7/- per stone on imported flour?
If the Deputy wishes me to look into any matter he has only to mention it to ensure that I shall.
Is the Minister aware that in sanctioning the price of 7/- per stone, he is sanctioning an illegal price?
I should be distressed to hear so.
The Minister is distressed.