asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he has now reached a decision in regard to the price to be paid for home-grown wheat in the coming year, and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Price of Wheat.
asked the Minister for Agriculture whether, in view of the important part played by wheat growing towards the stabilisation of our balance of payments, and in view of the increased production costs of the farming community, he will review the price fixed for this year's crop and consider restoring the price of £4 a barrel, at least.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to answer Questions Nos. 51 and 52 together.
The Government having considered representations regarding the price of wheat are satisfied that the price fixed last year yielded a fair margin of profit but inasmuch as certain costs have increased since that price was announced, notably the price of fertilisers, the Government have decided to increase the price payable for millable wheat of the 1956 crop by 2/6 a barrel. An official announcement to this effect was issued on 14th January last. It is not proposed to make any further increase in the price.