asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether there are any firms in this country distributing optical lenses, appliances and instruments that are manufactured, assembled or processed in countries behind the Iron Curtain.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Optical Goods from Behind the Iron Curtain.
I have no information in the matter. I should, perhaps, say that imports of the goods referred to from the countries in question are negligible.
I can inform the Minister that there is a firm distributing and advertising goods that are manufactured in Eastern Germany behind the Iron Curtain.
Is the Deputy giving information or seeking it?
This firm has been denied the right to advertise in optical journals in America, Canada and Britain but they are permitted to do so here.
The Deputy is not asking a supplementary question.
The Deputy might give some information, if he has it, to the Revenue Commissioners or to the Department under whose control they come. My information is that the total value of imports of these goods in three months amounted to £2.
I should like to draw the Minister's attention to the fact that imports have commenced only recently. If I give the Minister the information, will he investigate the matter?
In so far as it is appropriate for me as Minister for Industry and Commerce. The information might be addressed to the appropriate Minister, but I shall investigate the matter as soon as I get the information.