asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce what commodities are at present being investigated by the Fair Trade Commission in regard to price increases.
50.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Investigation of Price Increases.
49.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce what commodities he has referred to the Fair Trade Commission for investigation in regard to price increases since 1st November last; and what have been the results of any such completed investigations.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 49 and 50 together.
The Fair Trade Commission are concerned with price increases only to the extent that they arise from restrictive practices in the supply and distribution of goods which might limit price competition. It is the duty of the Commission to keep under review the effect on the public interest of such practices and it has not been necessary for me to refer any particular cases to them. Since 1st November, 1963, the Commission, on their own initiative, have undertaken general investigations of a widespread nature, as well as investigations of individual complaints. In particular, they have undertaken investigations into collective action affecting the prices of foodstuffs, intoxicating liquor, and pharmaceutical and allied products. The Commission have reported to me the outcome of their investigations regarding foodstuffs. In most cases there was no evidence of collusion by traders to fix or maintain prices and active competition existed; in some cases where there appeared to be evidence of collective action I have arranged for prosecutions. I understand that the Commission have not completed their investigations in the case of the other commodities.
Is it still the Minister's policy to allow prices to increase and to hope that by dint of competition they will find their own level? Is the Minister not prepared to take the initiative in the matter of price increases and, where he believes prices are exorbitant, to refer those cases to the Fair Trade Commission or to the Prices Advisory Body?
As the Deputy knows, the Minister has examined cases of alleged collusion in a great number of towns and has undertaken prosecutions in certain cases. He is generally satisfied, however, that there is very little collusion.
That is not the only method by which price increases can be effected.
Under the Fair Trade Commission legislation, the Minister has to confine himself to seeing whether or not there is collusion in regard to price maintenance.
Would the Minister not consider using the machinery he himself provides under the Prices Act?
The Minister has made his position very clear on that.
He said he would use those powers only in an emergency. Surely this is an emergency, where prices are soaring day after day?
Would the Minister consider prosecuting the principal offender in the matter of rising prices, the Government?