asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that, under the Emergency Powers (Cocoa) Order (No. 308), 1943, cocoa cannot be sold to a domestic consumer by a retailer unless such domestic consumer is registered with him as a tea customer, with the result that, as all such registered customers do not use and, therefore, will not buy cocoa, large quantities of cocoa are being accumulated in the warehouses of cocoa dealers; if so, if he will revoke the Order, so as to enable cocoa retailers to sell cocoa without restriction to those members of the public who are anxious to buy and consume it.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sale of Cocoa.
I am not aware that large quantities of cocoa powder are being accumulated in the warehouses of cocoa dealers. There is no obligation on any individual trader to purchase more cocoa than he is in a position to sell. I am not prepared to revoke the Cocoa Distribution Order until the supply position justifies that course.