asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that a 5d increase has been imposed on the price of an ounce of hard plug tobacco; and of the hardship this has caused old age pensioners, county council workers, agricultural workers and other low wage-earning groups; and if he will take immediate steps to reduce the hardship imposed on many of these people who have had to give up pipe smoking.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Plug Tobacco Price.
6.
Hard pressed tobacco, which accounts for over 85 per cent of all pipe tobaccos consumed here, already enjoys a substantial rebate of duty compared with other tobacco products, including cigarettes. I am not satisfied that an increase in the rebate above its present level of practically 1s 6d. an ounce would be warranted.