Vol. 215 No. 13
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will take action to prevent brewers and distillers from availing themselves of increases in taxation on beer and spirits to increase the prices of those drinks to an extent greater than that justified by increases in taxation.
18.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce what action he will take to ensure that increases in the price of certain commodities caused by the Budget taxation impositions are not used as an excuse to increase the prices of those and other commodities to an extent not necessitated by taxation increases.
I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 17 and 18 together.
As announced by the Fair Trade Commission on 18th May, 1965, they are arranging, at my request, to hold a public inquiry into restrictive practices between retailers made at the instance of retail associations which affect or are capable of affecting retail prices of intoxicating liquor and soft drinks.
I understand from press reports that there has been an increase by brewers and distillers in their prices of beer and spirits to cover increased production costs. I am arranging to have the necessity for these increases examined by the appropriate Branch of my Department.
I have received no complaints of an unwarranted increase in the price of any commodity, other than beer or spirits, as a result of the recent Budget taxation.
I am greateful that the Minister acted so quickly as soon as I asked a question in the matter.
You do not take a drink. Some of us do.
It is a good thing he does not.
Thanks for the compliment.
