asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy the action taken on foot of the recommendations of the Restrictive Practices Commission in their study of competition in the licensed drink trade; if formal discussions have taken place with any of the interests concerned; if the Government have considered the report and, in particular, if he is prepared to review the operation of the standstill order on drink prices, as part of an overall plan for greater competition in the trade.
Written Answers . - Licensed Drink Trade .
145.
: The recommendations of the Restrictive Practices Commission in their study of competition in the licensed trade are being examined. Many of the recommendations are concerned with sensitive areas and need to be given very careful consideration before conclusions are reached on them. Acceptance of many of these recommendations would mean major changes in the existing law relating to the sale of intoxicating liquor. Pending completion of the examination referred to, the Government have not considered the report in detail.
The standstill order on drink prices referred to has fixed prices at the levels charged at certain dates in August 1977. The order recognises any differentials in prices which may be due to the operation of competition within the trade. However, in any overall plan for greater competition in the trade arising from the examination of the report of the Restrictive Practices Commission or otherwise the operation of the standstill order would be borne in mind.