asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is now in a position to state what steps he proposes to take in connection with the restrictive practices operating in connection with the sale of petrol.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Restrictive Practices.
As the Dáil was informed on the 28th June last, in reply to a somewhat similar question, I am not yet in a position to say what steps will be taken as regards the restrictive practices alleged in connection with the sale of petrol.
In view of the considerable increase in petrol consumption in the country, due to the increase in the number of cars and tractors, and the fact that the Motor Traders Association are saying they are not stopping any licences being issued, and the petrol companies are anxious to give these licences if the motor traders will permit them and will not have a boycott on the particular company, will the Minister of the Department undertake the distribution of petrol to areas and villages that are now without supplies?
If the Deputy will give me particulars of the villages that have not supplies, I will have that matter looked into. I can assure the Deputy and other Deputies that this is a matter of very grave concern. I should say these restrictive practices are not confined to the motor trade and this matter is under very close consideration. We have got a certain distance with it and I hope we will be able to make more rapid progress, which will enable us to go to the Government with very definite proposals.
Can the Minister give us any indication when a decision will be arrived at?
I cannot, because the Deputy will appreciate that it is a very difficult matter. There are restrictive practices which are not confined to the motor or the petrol trades, but extend to many other trades. They are very wide and, therefore, it takes quite a considerable time to collect the necessary information and have it properly sifted. I can assure the House that whatever steps the Government may take, there will be no avoidable delay.