asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state what quantity of superphosphate was bought in Holland by him, or on his behalf, during the financial years 1950-51 and 1951-52 to date, the price paid for the superphosphate and the manner in which it was disposed of; and what quantity remained in his or Comhlucht Siúicre Éireann's control on June 1st, 1951.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fertiliser Stocks.
asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state what happened to the 48,000 tons of North African rock phosphate which were in store in June of this year and which were bought by his predecessor at £9 15s. 0d. per ton and whether, in view of the present high prices being charged for artificial manures, he will consider subsidising them.
I propose, with your permission, a Chinn Chomhairle, to take Questions Nos. 62 and 63 together.
The particulars requested by the Deputies are as follows:—
(a) The total quantity imported from Holland during the periods in question up to the 24th November, 1951, was 86,804 tons.
(b) The prices per ton, in bags, c.i.f. main east-coast ports ranged from £8 0s. 6d. to £13 9s. 4d. for 35 per cent. superphosphate; from £8 12s. 3d. to £14 14s. 7d. for 39 per cent. and from £9 8s. 0d. to £15 9s. 11d. for 43-44 per cent. according to the periods of delivery.
(c) The superphosphate was taken by Comhlucht Siúicre Éireann for sale to beet growers direct, and for general distribution through trade channels, or direct sale ex ship or store.
(d) Stocks held by Comhlucht Siúicre Éireann on 1st June, 1951, for disposal on behalf of the Minister totalled 23,035 tons.
(e) It is not intended to subsidise artificial fertilisers.
Did the Minister say that 86,000 tons had been taken by the sugar company?
No.