asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy if he proposes to introduce a petrol price display order similar to that introduced in the United Kingdom on 12th August, 1977, to encourage active competition in relation to the retail price of petrol; and, if not, why.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Petrol Prices.
39.
In so far as the question implies that active competition in relation to the retail price of petrol is to be encouraged, I agree entirely with the Deputy. However, I understand that the order referred to in the question was made in the United Kingdom to prohibit misleading indications of price in relation to petrol sales. I have no evidence that a similar problem exists in this country, I have accordingly no plans at present to make a petrol price display order.
In view of the fact that the Parliamentary Secretary agreed, in response to an earlier question, that the reason there had been reductions in petrol prices here was because of active competition existing in the United Kingdom would she not agree that a retail display order would, as it has done in the United Kingdom, give more information to consumers as to the relevant prices at different outlets? Would she not agree that consumers would then be encouraged to shop around? Would she not agree to introducing a similar order here?
As the Deputy is aware, at present we have a Maximum Prices Petrol (No. 3) Order, 1977, which came into operation on 15th July. I agree we have no prices display order but in the United Kingdom maximum retail prices for petrol were fixed up to 19th December, 1974, when the order in force then was revoked. Therefore, it became necessary for the United Kingdom to operate a prices display order. As we still have the Maximum Prices Petrol Order it is not the intention of the Minister at present to make a petrol prices display order.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary not agree that there is a distinction between a display order, which may lead to a cutting in the price, and a maximum prices order? Would the Parliamentary Secretary agree to refer the possibility of establishing a display order to the National Prices Commission for their views?
That question will be taken into consideration. However, as we have no evidence of competition of the type that existed in the United Kingdom prior to the making of the price display order there, I feel there is no need to do so here.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary not agree that such a display order would be helpful to all consumers? Would she agree that it would lead to competition and a possible reduction in cost?
I agree that competition in the petrol trade, or in any trade, is very healthy and good and must be encouraged.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary not agree that the consumer has a right to this type of information being displayed at petrol retail stations?
I will see if this matter should be referred to the National Prices Commission and I will communicate with the Deputy.