asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that several house builders informed customers this year that the prices of their houses were being increased because of the five per cent wholesale tax; and that many such builders have not yet notified their customers that the increases will not now be made because certain building materials have been exempted from the tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wholesale Tax on House Prices.
33.
I am not aware of a situation as suggested by the Deputy. I am, however, prepared to have any cases investigated in which there is prima facie evidence of unwarranted increases in the prices of new houses, provided the full facts in relation to each case are made available to me.
Are we to understand the Minister is not aware that builders in the Dublin area notified customers in the past six months of their intention to increase the price of houses because of the wholesale tax?
I have had three complaints in regard to increases in house prices and the reference in those complaints to the wholesale tax was merely a passing one; the concentration was on other aspects.
Is the Minister not aware that doors made off the site are, in fact, being charged for at the extra cost and that requirements such as brass and fittings such as handbasins, and such items, are all being charged the tax? In fact, many manufacturers off the site seem to be including it, or most of them.
Is the Minister aware that there is a racket in the price of houses?
There are housebuilding items which are exempt from wholesale tax and there are other items which are not exempt, but I can only go on the basis of the complaints I have received. I have told the House the nature of the complaints received, of which there are only three. I am prepared to have an investigation of complaints made, where they are substantiated.
Does the Minister not agree that five per cent on the price of a new bath or a door manufactured off the site puts up the price of a new house?
While they are talking about trifles, they are getting handfuls from the people.
This is not within the spirit of what was meant. There is an error and the Revenue Commissioners are applying this in a more stringent way than was intended.
The items which are exempt are clearly set out. I do not think there is any doubt about what is exempt.
Does the Minister agree with the list? He is responsible for it.
The Deputy will be aware that the list was published some time ago. It does not come within the ambit of my Department.