asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that the cross-Channel shipping companies and British Railways have intimated that by 1st September they intend to abolish "through wagon" rates and substitute "through-head" rates; what effect this decision will have on the cattle trade, and what steps he has taken, or intends to take, in the matter; whether he is aware that British Railways have increased their freight rates, with effect from 1st June last, and if he will state the circumstances which led to this increase; and if he will make a statement.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cross-Channel Freight Rates.
I am aware that the Irish and British Traffic Conference have intimated to the National Executive of the Irish Live Stock Trade that they propose not later than 1st September next to substitute head rates for wagon rates in respect of cattle shipped from Irish ports and interior stations to interior stations in Britain. The national executive have made strong representations to me in the matter, with particular reference to the fact that examples of the proposed head rates furnished by the Traffic Conference indicated that not only would the rating system be changed, but higher rates would in effect be imposed. My Department has informed the Traffic Conference that I am most concerned that no action will be taken by them towards implementing the proposal, as I desire that it first should be fully considered from all aspects by the interests concerned.
I am also aware that percentage increases in cross-Channel through rates for merchandise traffic generally were announced to take place on 1st June, 1956, but as this matter does not come within the scope of my Department's functions I am not in a position to make a statement thereon.