Vol. 205 No. 13
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will ask the Fair Trade Commission to inquire into the operation of trading stamp schemes, having regard to the element of duress upon, and interference with, legitimate trade, thereby increasing prices.
18.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will consider legislation to prohibit the use of trading stamps in this country.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 18 together.
As I have already stated in reply to earlier questions on the subject, I am satisfied that stamp trading is not a restrictive practice and, accordingly, is outside the scope of the functions of the Fair Trade Commission.
While representations have been made to me by some traders' associations about the adverse effects of trading stamps upon the retail business, I have had no complaints by or on behalf of consumers that the practice has resulted in increased prices to them, or is in any other way objectionable to purchasers.
I am, however, keeping this matter under observation and if it emerges that stamp trading is likely to be contrary to the public interest I will consider taking suitable action.
