asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that a number of petrol dealers (details supplied) have been suspended from membership of the Irish Motor Traders' Association by reason of giving trading stamps with each purchase of petrol; if he will have inquiries made as to whether this contravenes fair trade practices; and, if so, if he will have the matter fully investigated.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Trading Stamps for Petrol Purchases.
47.
Questions of admission to or expulsion from membership of trade associations do not come within the scope of the Restrictive Trade Practices Acts. I would like to point out, however, that Article 16 of the Restrictive Trade Practices (Motor Spirit and Motor Vehicle Lubricating Oil) Order, 1961, provides that a wholesaler shall not withhold supplies from any retailer or discriminate against any retailer as to the terms on which petrol is supplied, by reason only of the fact that the retailer is not a member of any trade association. I am not aware that the retailers referred to by the Deputy have been refused supplies of petrol or that they have been discriminated against in any way in the matter of supplies.