asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy (i) the total tonnage of coal in stock by coal merchants in the State on Thursday, 24th November, 1977; (ii) if instructions had been issued by his Department to coal merchants not to charge increased prices prior to Monday, 28th November, 1977; and (iii) if he intends to take any action against merchants who charged customers the increased price prior to Monday, 28th November, 1977.
Written Answers. - Coal Prices.
147.
I have not got details of the total tonnage of coal held by coal merchants throughout the country on 24th November, 1977.
Following an increase in the f.o.b. price of coal to Irish coal importers as from 1st October, 1977, applications for an increase in the retail price were received from the coal merchants. The applications were considered by the National Prices Commission.
Increases recommended by the commission were accepted by me and the merchants were authorised to increase the price of loose coal as from 24th November, 1977. In the case of prepackaged coal an increase was approved by Maximum Price Order with effect from 28th November, 1977.
If the Deputy is aware of any case where the price of prepackaged coal was increased before 28th November, 1977, I will have the matter fully investigated on receipt of the necessary particulars.