asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will indicate the quantity and value of wool imported into this country for each of the past two years and if he will state whether this wool was purchased direct from the country or countries of origin and, if not, whether he will endeavour to arrange that importers purchase this wool direct and have it brought to this country in Irish ships.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wool Imports.
The quantity and value of wool imported into this country for each of the past two years was: 1948, 45,692 centals, value £635,971; 1949, 45,067 centals, value £738,765. The bulk of imports in each year originated in New Zealand and Australia. I have no information as to what proportion of these imports was purchased or shipped directly from the countries of origin.
It is the Government's policy to encourage the purchase and shipment of imported commodities direct from countries of origin and the use of Irish vessels for this purpose. I do not, however, propose to take powers to compel importers to purchase wool direct from countries of origin or to import it in Irish vessels.
Is the Minister aware that most of this Australian wool is purchased through English agents? My question was as to whether he would endeavour to get these importers to buy it direct from the country of origin.
I would certainly be very glad to try to induce them to do so, but I do not propose to go any further than that.