asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if any application has been received for permission to increase the price of bread; and, if so, if it is intended to accede to the application.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bread Price.
39.
On 11th February last, I made an order under the Prices Acts, 1958 and 1965, establishing a prices advisory body to inquire into and report to me on proposals by millers and bakers to increase their prices for flour and bread respectively. The prices advisory body has not yet furnished me with the report on its inquiries.
Can the Minister state how the price of bread compares with the price when the Government came into office in 1957? It was approximately 9d for the large loaf at that time. It is nearly 15p now.
The Deputy is a little out of touch. I could give the Deputy a full report on progress but then the Deputy would object and say I am giving a long-winded reply.
The Minister is one of the best at keeping replies short. Would the Minister mind telling the House the price of bread in May, 1957, and the price today?
That is a separate question.
It is nearly four times what it was in 1957 and there is a further application for another increase. What is the reason?
There is not an application. I have told the Deputy that the prices advisory body has not yet furnished me with a report on its inquiries.
Did the Minister not get this document from the flour millers?
We know what the outcome will be.
On the front of the document there was a picture of a loaf of bread and there was the caption about taking politics out of the price of bread.
I am calling Question No. 40.