asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will consider controlling the importation of tin cans as has been done by at least one other member country of the EEC, with a view to helping home manufacturers of tin or glass containers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tin Cans Imports.
16.
I have received no representations from home manufacturers in regard to the imposition of import controls on tin cans. Consideration of such a proposal would have to take into account the possible adverse effects on the canning industry. I should add that most of our imports come from other member states and our obligations under the Treaty of Accession to the EEC preclude the unilateral imposition of controls on these imports.
I believe at least one member state curtailed imports of tin cans and I am sure they subscribe to the EEC regulation as much as we do. I cannot understand the Minister's remark on that point. One country has already taken the steps I suggested in order to protect home manufacturers.
Imports from where?
From anywhere. Would the Minister receive representations from home manufacturers and react favourably to those representations?
I will certainly consider representations from home manufacturers. The great bulk of what we import is not manufactured here because, as the House will appreciate, there are many kinds of different containers. I will be happy to receive representations but I should like to point out that I have to consider the point of view of the canning industry and the cost comparisons of the canning industry in regard to the defence of the domestic market and exports. While I will consider what the tin can industry has to say I must bear in mind the point of view of the industry that uses these tin cans also.