(South Tipperary) asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce, in view of (1) a probable ten per cent. acceleration in tariff cuts in the Common Market, bringing industrial tariffs down to fifty per cent. by 1st July 1962, (2) Britain's alleged preparedness to join at this level, and (3) the suggested advancement of the next adjustment from 31st December 1965 to 1st July 1963, what practical steps have been taken in this country regarding this matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Reduction of Tariffs.
21.
I would refer the Deputy to the fact that the Committee on Industrial Organisation has been set up for the purpose of making a critical appraisal of the measures that may require to be taken to adapt Irish industry to conditions of more intensive competition in home and export markets, to undertake an examination of the difficulties which may be created for particular industries and to formulate positive measures of adjustment and adaptation. As the Deputy is aware, the interim report of the Committee has been published today.
The rhythm of tariff reductions which will apply in the event of Ireland's accession to the Treaty has yet to be determined. As regards Item (3) in the Deputy's question, I am not aware of any suggestion to make such an adjustment in relation to the internal tariffs. The dates quoted by the Deputy suggest that the proposed acceleration to which he is referring is that of the movement to the common external tariff.
Can the Minister say on what date this committee started to work?
I cannot give the exact date.
Can the Minister state the date on which the committee was set up?
Six months ago, I think—September or October—I cannot remember exactly.
The Minister would not quarrel with me if I said October?
No.