asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will take steps to extend the scope of the proposed inquiry into beer, wine and spirit prices to include the margin of profit allowed to brewers, distillers and wholesalers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Inquiry into Liquor Prices.
37.
As I stated in reply to a question on 20th May, 1965, I have arranged for the examination by the appropriate branch of my Department of the necessity for the recent increases by brewers and distillers in their prices for beer and spirits.
I have received no complaints about wholesalers' margins for beer, spirits or wine.
Why does the Minister not go down along the line in these inquiries?
Down where?
All branches of it, including wholesalers.
I have no complaints about the wholesalers' margins. I have no reason to believe there is any need for investigation.
Was the Minister present when, in a speech in this House recently, the Taoiseach said that, in respect of any inquiry into any commodity, all factors should be taken into account?
I have enough information to know that there is very keen competition at the wholesale level and no evidence whatever to suggest that there is any need for an inquiry there.
Surely the public has to be assured that competition is keen in any sector?
My information permits me to give this assurance.
I do not think it would be accepted unless an inquiry were held.