asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether there will be any increase in the near future in the retail price of beef in this country; if so, what this increase is likely to be; whether his Department are considering any form of price-control and, if not, why.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Beef Prices.
84.
The retail price of beef is related to cattle prices which usually vary with supply and demand. I would not contemplate the introduction of control on beef prices at the retail level unless there was evidence that retail prices were excessive when related to the prevailing prices for cattle.
In view of the fact that the butchers will have no control over the matter and in view of the excessive demand that will arise from the EEC countries, can the Minister suggest anything that can be done to curb the rising prices of meal in this country which will occur in the next week or so? Has the Minister any suggestions for keeping the prices down?
The only suggestion I have is certainly not mine—but the Deputy obviously wants it—and that is to keep down the price of cattle. If the price of cattle increases, there must be a rise in the price of meat. There is no formula for preventing the price of meat going up.
Britain has come up with a formula. Can we not suggest a formula to keep down the price of meat to the ordinary people? Meat is a basic part of a diet. Can we have some form of subsidy.
This question deals only with price control.
Has the Minister considered the problem?
I have considered the problem of price control.
(Interruptions.)