asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state (a) the quantity of sugar imported by the Irish Sugar Company during the present financial year; (b) the average price paid for sugar imported during the year; (c) the quantity of sugar produced from home-grown beet, and (d) the wholesale price realised by the company for (i) imported and (ii) home-produced sugar.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sugar Imports.
The following are the particulars required:—(a) It is estimated that during the Irish Sugar Company's financial year which commenced on 1st May, 1938, and will end on 30th April, 1939, the quantity of sugar imported will be 57,000 tons. (b) The average price, duty paid, for such imported sugar is estimated to be 24/5 per cwt. (c) It is estimated that the quantity of sugar produced from home-grown beet by the company in the manufacturing campaign 1938/39 will be 63,000 tons. (d) The wholesale prices paid to the company for imported sugar and home-produced sugar is the same, namely 25/5 per cwt. The difference between the latter price and the price of 24/5 per cwt. paid by the company for imported sugar is accounted for by the fact that most customers enjoy the maximum rebate of 9d. per cwt. The remaining 3d. of the difference between the two prices may be regarded as expenses of distribution on imported sugar.
Arising out of the reply, can the Minister say what is the price paid for imported sugar in bond?
I am afraid I could not answer that.
Does the Minister know what the duty on sugar is?
I would want notice of that.
It is a great country, Sir.