asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether the tea supplies on hand, in transit, or awaiting shipment, are sufficient to cover requirements for the remainder of this year; and when purchases of the new season's crop will commence.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tea Supplies.
The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The company have advised me that they will make purchases of 1957 season tea at the weekly Calcutta sales, which are expected to reopen in mid-June, in time to ensure that adequate supplies are landed in this country before the end of the year.
Has the Minister given consideration to removing controls on the purchase of tea and allowing tea to be bought freely by those who deal in it wherever they can buy it?
Mr. Lemass
That is hardly a supplementary question.
Well, it seems to arise.