asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if, in view of the disquiet caused in the motor vehicle assembly industry by the current restrictions on hire purchase transactions, he will say how long the restrictions will continue; what steps will be taken to ensure continuity of employment in the industry and allied trades; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Motor Assembly Industry.
16.
I am not aware of any disquiet caused in the motor vehicle assembly industry by the restrictions on hire purchase transactions and I do not consider that the restrictions should have any adverse effect on employment in the industry and allied trades. On the contrary, their purpose is to help to guard against developments that could be prejudicial to the continuity of employment in this and other trades and industries.
It is not possible to say, at this stage, how long the restrictions will be maintained.
We understood that the purpose of hire purchase restriction was to restrict the importation of parts for the manufacture of motor cars. If the purpose be otherwise, can the Minister give an assurance that there will be no reduction in the number of motor cars manufactured? Is it not the purpose of the restriction to restrict the manufacture of motor cars?
It is related more to credit than to manufacture.
If the money is not available to buy the motor cars, does the Minister think the cars will be given on tick until it is available?
The restriction is very limited in scope and is not very much different from the restriction placed upon purchase by the trade itself.
(Interruptions.)
I imagine the result will be that people will save a little more in order to purchase in this way.
(Interruptions.)
Getting a higher allowance on the old car.
The supplementary question asked if there will be a reduction in employment in the motor car industry?
I have no reason to believe——
Mr. O'Malley
What about the levies you people put on?
And which you made permanent, and by making them permanent, upset the industry in a way in which it would never have been upset by temporary levies.
You should take a look at your health services.
(Interruptions.)
Order. Deputies should allow Ministers to answer questions.