asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware that a tobacco firm has advised its customers that the Government this year imposed restrictions on the clearance of tobacco leaf from bond to a level less than the average for 1961; whether this is so; and, if so, the date on which, and the reason why, the restriction was imposed, and the authority for imposing it.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Clearance of Tobacco Leaf from Bond.
6.
Mr. Ryan
On the 1st March last, I made an Order directing the Revenue Commissioners to restrict deliveries of tobacco leaf to the quantity which appeared to them to be reasonable having regard to the circumstances. This was a precautionary measure in view of the approaching Budget and was taken under the powers conferred on me by Section 18 of the Finance Act, 1939.
In carrying out my direction, the Revenue Commissioners controlled deliveries by reference to deliveries over the previous twelve months and in the corresponding period last year. The restrictions will cease as from tomorrow.
Mr. Ryan
Would the Minister refer to that particular part of the question which asks whether he is aware that the Revenue Commissioners have in fact reduced the level to an average of less than last year? The Minister, apparently, has been informed it is the same as last year: in fact it is less. Would the Minister indicate the circumstances? Are they that he intends to impose extra duty on tobacco and, if so, does this not amount to a Budget leakage in advance?
The Deputy should bottle up his curiosity until he hears the Minister for Finance.
Mr. Ryan
With regard to the Minister's impertinence, it is about time he directed his answers to questions and not to questioners. What are the circumstances to which he referred in his original reply?
Better study the reply.
Mr. Ryan
Better study the Minister's Budget speech.