asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether representations have been made to him by interested parties concerning filling station and garage proprietors who may have entered into an arrangement with an oil company to sell its products for a fixed term and who, on the expiration of such term, wish to sell all or several companies' products; whether he is aware that such proprietors are now debarred by the oil companies from so doing, and, if so, if he will (a) refer the matter to the Fair Trade Commission, and (b) have petrol prices generally reviewed.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sale of Oil Products.
I have received representations from one firm claiming to be adversely affected by the system of distribution referred to by the Deputy, and I have suggested to them that they should discuss their difficulties with the Fair Trade Commission.
With regard to petrol prices, the position is that these are kept under general review in my Department.
With regard to the last paragraph in connection with petrol prices, would the Minister state if he intends to do anything about the recent increase in petrol prices announced by the companies?
The Deputy knows that petrol prices vary from time to time in accordance with international arrangements and the recent increase in petrol prices are increases at the point of importation. There has been no increase in the margins in consequence of the increase in the import costs of petrol and other oils.
Would the Minister state where he got that information?
From much more reliable sources than the Deputy got his.