asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce when application was made to his Department for permission to increase the price of tea; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
56.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Price of Tea.
55.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that the price of tea is being increased; and if he will take the necessary steps to prevent it.
57.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has approved the increase of 4d per lb. in the price of tea; if so, why; and if he will hold a public inquiry to establish why the price of tea should be increased.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 55, 56 and 57 together.
Formal application was received in my Department in June last from wholesale tea dealers for permission to increase the price of tea by 8d per lb. to compensate for increased costs resulting from the devaluation of sterling. After a full investigation of the application, I agreed to a price increase by the wholesale tea dealers which results in an increase of 4d per lb. at retail level. In the circumstances the necessity for a public inquiry into tea prices does not arise.