asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the widespread complaints about the quality of tea which is being offered for sale; and, if so, what steps he proposes to take to provide a better quality tea for the consumer.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Quality of Tea.
I am not aware of widespread complaints about the quality of the tea at present on sale; but I understand that from next April there will be an improvement in the quality allocated to the trade when distribution of better quality tea purchased this year by Tea Importers Limited will commence. I would refer the Deputy in this regard to the reply given to a question on this matter in Dáil Éireann on 17th July, 1951.
Are traders still compelled to depend for their supplies of tea on Tea Importers Limited?
Tea Importers are still the sole importers of tea.
Is that desirable in the circumstances?
I am prepared to discuss the merits of State enterprise against private enterprise with the Deputy at any time.
Which side are you on?