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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 12 Jul 1972

Vol. 262 No. 8

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Food Prices.

47.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will make a statement on the recently published National Prices Commission report on a survey carried out on food prices throughout the country; if he will indicate why such a large degree of difference exists in the cost of several items purchased in different locations; whether any complaints have been made to his Department; and if his Department will give consideration to the establishment of a uniform price level for all food items retailed in this country.

48.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if, in view of the variation in prices in consumer goods throughout the country as revealed by the National Prices Commission, he will take steps to enforce uniformity of prices at a proper level; and if he will ensure that price lists, with lettering at least two inches high, be displayed close to the goods on sale.

49.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if any action will be taken to control regional variations in food prices following the recent report of the National Prices Commission.

50.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the strong criticisms contained in the first pilot regional prices survey by the National Prices Commission; and what action he proposes on this matter.

With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 47 to 50, inclusive, together.

The National Prices Commission, as indicated in their report for the month of June, are arranging to have the detailed data that the regional prices survey provided in relation to price variations analysed in greater depth. It would not be appropriate that I should take any action on this matter until the commission have completed their examination of the survey results.

When will the survey be completed?

I do not know. The June report of the commission does not indicate that but it will probably be several months before they will have examined it in depth.

In view of the urgency and importance of the matter will the Minister assure the House that the survey will be expedited as much as possible?

I will convey the Deputy's sentiments to the commission.

51.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if, in the light of the recently published National Prices Commission Report and the massive range of price increases granted by that body for a large number of consumer commodities, he will consider introducing a short term price freeze to allow for a full investigation into the sharp price spiral; and, if not, why.

I would refer the Deputy to my reply to his somewhat similar question on 2nd December last. The National Prices Commission has not made any recommendation to me about a price freeze and, as I indicated on the previous occasion, I do not comtemplate such a freeze. Price increases will of course continue to be the subject of full investigation by the National Prices Commission.

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