asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state the quantity and value of the flour improvers imported in 1938; whether his attention was directed to the fact that certain countries actually engaged in the export of these improvers to Ireland have themselves prohibited their use in flour used for home consumption; and whether it is his intention to take any action regarding the use of improvers in the flour used in this country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Imported Flour Improvers.
Under the Official Import List description, "Acid Calcium Phosphate Preparations in powder form for use as a Flour Improver", the quantity and value imported for the year 1938 was 97 cwts., valued at £222. While this is the only Official Import List description in which the term "Flour Improver" is used, an examination of the Official Import List headed "Chemical Manufactures and Products n.e.s." shows that there were approximately 1,750 cwts., valued at £5,600, imported in the year 1938 described generally as "Bread Improvers." In addition, acid calcium phosphate and acid sodium phosphate preparations are now manufactured in a plant in this country.
I am making further inquiries into the use of improvers generally and will communicate the result of these inquiries to the Deputy at a later date.