asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that the price of snuff has been increased by from fourpence to sixpence per ounce; and if he will take steps to have the price reduced.
22.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Price of Snuff.
21.
asked the Minister for Finance if he will take steps to have the price of snuff reduced.
I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 21 and 22 together.
The increases in duty announced in the Budget had the effect of increasing the duty element in an ounce of snuff by amounts varying from somewhat more than 3d. to less than 3d. depending on the type of snuff. Prices of tobacco products are not controlled and traders are free to make whatever adjustment they think necessary in their prices. As far as the duty is concerned, I am not prepared to introduce any special concession for snuff.