asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the machinery which exists in his Department, following the abolition of the Prices Commission, for the control of prices; and whether he is satisfied that the work which was previously carried out by 20 inspectors can now be dealt with by the ten inspectors who remain in his Department's employ.
Written Answers. - Control of Prices.
24.
(Limerick East): As I indicated in a written reply on 9 April, the general thrust of Government policy involves a movement away from detailed price controls in favour of measures to promote greater competition throughout the economy. A prices advisory function will be vested in the proposed new Fair Trade Commission and the proposed new Director of Consumer Affairs and Fair Trade will be responsible for such enforcement of prices legislation as is necessary. In addition, all of the basic powers in relation to price control in the Prices Acts are being retained. The necessary amendment of the restrictive practices legislation to give effect to the new regime is in preparation at present. Work is also proceeding in regard to the establishment of appropriate staffing arrangements, including the provision of staffing, as necessary, for prices duties.