asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that English biscuits are being sold in Dublin at a price which is 3d. to 4d. per lb. cheaper than biscuits manufactured in Ireland, and if so, if he is prepared to increase the rebate on flour used for biscuits manufactured for export to enable the home-manufacturer to compete on more advantageous terms.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Biscuit Exports—Rebate of Flour.
I am not aware that the position regarding the price of English biscuits sold in Dublin is as indicated by the Deputy.
The rebate payable on flour used in the manufacture of biscuits for export is intended to equate the flour price to that obtaining in the country of destination of the exports, and could not, therefore, affect the price of Irish made biscuits sold on the home market.
Might I ask if the Minister has received any proposals from the Irish manufacturers whereby some alleviation of the position might be effected?
Yes. Proposals that have been received from the biscuit manufacturers are at present being considered.