asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the proposed entry into Irish retailing of a foreign-controlled supermarket chain company; and if, having regard to the fact that for many years he has been exhorting Irish traders to give their full support to the products of Irish manufacturers, he will now exhort consumers to give their full support to retail stores operated by nationals of this country.
Written Answers. - Foreign Controlled Supermarket Chain Company.
73.
I have seen press reports relating to the matter mentioned in the first part of the question. As regards the second part, I do not consider that it would be in the public interest to interfere, in the manner suggested, with the free play of competitive forces which provide the incentive to efficiency in the distributive trades.
The support which I have been advocating, and to which the Deputy refers, related to goods of Irish manufacture. I am also prepared to exhort consumers, wherever possible, to support traders who give their support to Irish-made goods.