asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce, in relation to his decision to impose a reduction in the retail margin on petrol, the real cost for petrol retailers, having taken account of tokens not redeemed or not issued to certain classes of customers, of involvement in gifts promotion schemes; the justification for imposing a margin reduction on retailers who were not involved in such promotions; and the steps he took to consult with representative trade associations before taking his decision.
Written Answers. - Price of Petrol.
74.
Unredeemed tokens do not add to the cost of gift schemes and the non-issuing of tokens benefits the retailer. Estimates within the industry of the previous cost impact have varied but the Deputy will be aware that the recent termination of these schemes resulted in the absorption of a 5p per gallon increase that was being sought.
The problem of gift promotions has been examined at various times in the past. The Deputy will appreciate that the action taken recently was in response to an immediate and difficult situation.