asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy if the National Prices Commission have investigated price increases on imported goods, which originally resulted from the weakened sterling position, to ascertain if these increases are still warranted in the light of the improved sterling position; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Price Increases on Imported Goods.
15.
The National Prices Commission keep regularly under review the prices of imported materials and goods with a view to ensuring that reductions in such prices are reflected speedily at all levels of consumption. I have recently asked the commission to pay particular attention to this matter in the light of present circumstances, where the prices of many commodities on world markets are decreasing, in some cases as a result of the appreciation of sterling. The Deputy will, no doubt, be aware of the price reductions which have already been put into effect in the cases of tea, margarine, cooking fats and petroleum products and the reduction which has been effected in the fuel surcharge operated by the ESB.