asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that the price of certain Bedford motor parts purchased retail in the Republic represents a profit of over 300 per cent. On the retail controlled price in Northern Ireland; and, if so, what action he proposes to take.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Retail Price of Motor Parts.
24.
Statutory control is not exercised over the retail prices of motor parts. I am not aware that the profits position is as stated by the Deputy and I do not propose to take any action in the matter. The Deputy will appreciate the fact that motor parts are liable to customs duty on importation here.
If I give the Minister evidence that this is a fact, will he have it investigated?
The position is that in this particular trade there are alternative sources of supply of parts of any particular type of motor car. If a person submits himself to being subjected to exorbitant profits by a person who sells goods to him, I do not have a great deal of sympathy if he has an alternative means of supply. I cannot protect everybody.
Is it the Minister's suggestion that a person living in Donegal should smuggle parts in order to have an alternative supply?
I am not suggesting any such thing.
There is no alternative. He must pay the same price to any agent in Donegal. He has no alternative.
I have no information of that.