asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will indicate (a) the number of new protective tariffs he has authorised since he came into office, (b) the increase of cost that must be carried by the public as a result therefrom.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Protective Tariffs.
The imposition of protective tariffs is a matter for the Government and the Oireachtas. No new protective tariffs have been imposed since 15th June, 1951, but one protective tariff which had been suspended has been restored. In respect of that particular tariff the information asked for in the second part of the question would depend on the extent to which persons imported the goods in question and paid duty thereon. No increase in the price of home-manufactured goods should be involved.
Could the Minister indicate whether persons in receipt of this extraordinary protective tariff are subscribers to their funds?
Question No. 18.
Is there any reply to that question?
It is a supplementary question.
Deputy Collins cannot help wallowing in dirt seeing where he is sitting.
Surely we might have an answer to the question.
The Minister will not get out of it that soft. Can we take it as a fact that that is right?
Whether it is true or not, the Deputy will say it.
Is it true? (Interruptions.)
Question No. 18.