asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that the sale of cigarettes for retail is restricted almost wholly to people who were in the trade pre-war and whether, in view of the increased amount of tobacco released from bond, he will endeavour to arrange for manufacturers to supply new applicants.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tobacco Supplies to Traders.
The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. Last year, when the release of tobacco leaf from bond was subject to control under Emergency Powers Order, an increased allocation was made to the manufacturers on a written assurance that the additional supplies would be used solely for the purpose of the opening of new accounts.
Is the Taoiseach aware that that is not happening, that the companies have refused in several cases and said that they were not in a position to do it?
So far as the Government are concerned, they have given the fullest supplies of materials to the tobacco manufacturers. There is no question of Government action, as control has been taken off.
The manufacturers are refusing to supply the customers.