asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if his Department has sanctioned the increase in the price of binder twine from £11 in 1951 to £14.5 in 1952; and, if so, if he will state the reason for this increase of more than 25 per cent. and consider having the price reviewed in view of the hardship this revised price will cause to the agricultural community.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Price of Binder Twine.
It was not necessary for the manufacturers of binder twine to obtain sanction for the increase in price referred to by the Deputy as the price of this commodity has been decontrolled since 20th April, 1951. From inquiries which I have had made in the matter I am satisfied, however, that having regard to increased production costs, particularly the increased cost of raw materials which had been imported to meet requirements for the 1952 season, a reduction in the present price of binder twine is not warranted.