asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that the price fixed for margarine is for many country shops below their cost price from wholesalers; and if he will have the matter investigated.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Margarine Prices.
67.
I have received representations that the retail prices fixed for domestic margarines and cooking fats in the Maximum Prices (Household Goods) Order, 1973, which I made on 26th June, 1973, are too low in the case of a few specific brands.
I am having these representations examined at the moment.
While I am concerned that the housewife should get the cheaper rate it is also a fact that many shops will have to boycott goods such as corn flakes and other items. The profit on butter is 2 per cent and the shopkeeper is expected to pay VAT out of that. Therefore, would the Minister not abolish the price freeze, not rush into it as he must have done for some peculiar reason of his own? Obviously, there was no careful consideration given to the small shopkeeper.
The Deputy is making a statement.
Would the Minister consider that small shopkeepers are entitled to a livelihood just as anybody else?
I have been accused from the Opposition side both of delaying too long and of rushing. It, therefore, seems to me that, perhaps, I have the speed just about right. In regard to the substance of the Deputy's question, today I received a deputation and I am seeing RGDATA next Wednesday. I made the matter clear at the time of the introduction of this order. If there is evidence that in specific instances we have pitched the price in an anomalous way, I have the power to rectify that and I shall do so. I must be satisfied that this is so but if I am satisfied I shall do it. It is not my purpose to penalise shall shopkeepers.
Will the Minister not agree that this gives the opportunity to the large shopkeepers who buy in bulk at low rates to bring up their prices?
I am calling Question No. 68.