asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state the comparative prices in Ireland of British and American coal of similar quality.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Coal Prices.
The only American coal imported into Ireland since April last was one cargo for Cork. The maximum controlled retail prices in Cork of American and British coals are respectively £7 10s. per ton and £8 5s. per ton.
Of similar quality?
That is a six-mark question. I have no means of investigating the quality of the coals imported. The prices are fixed on the basis of what they cost the importer.
Are the prices fixed on a purely marginal resale basis?
Has the Minister no expert adviser in his Department to say whether the coal is suitable coal or not?
It is a matter for the merchant to decide what quality of coal he will arrange to import according to the requirements of his customers.
Has the Minister got any report as to the quality of the last cargo of coal which arrived in Cork from America?
No.
Can the Minister tell us how customers are to find out whether it is American or English coal they are getting?
That is a six-mark question.
If they pay less, it is American coal.