asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if statistics relating to industrial activities in the EEC, such as production, consumption, import and export figures, are available to him and his Department; and, if so, the circumstances under which and the manner in which he acquires them.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - EEC Statistics.
15.
The Statistical Office of the European Communities issues a variety of publications containing economic and social statistics relating to the member States, including the areas to which the Deputy refers. These publications appear at intervals ranging from monthly to annually. My Department subscribes to a number of these periodicals. The order is placed annually through the Stationery Office and the publications are then received direct from the Office for Official Publications of the European Communities in Luxembourg.
In addition member States can call on the services of the EEC Statistical Office to furnish additional or specific data not contained in their publications or in advance of publication. In all cases of course the Statistics Office applies the normal rules governing nondisclosure of information of a private and confidential nature.
Would the Minister give information to Deputies here on these matters if they seek it?
Yes. Any information we have of that sort is available.
If a Deputy puts down a question seeking such information will it be made available in the House?
If it comes to us through subscribing to the Community's information service we will certainly make it available either in reply to a question or directly.