asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if any attempts have been made by him, in accepting the recent increase in the price of coal, to relate the quality of the coal to the price.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Price and Quality of Coal.
67.
Coal importers gave me advance notice of price increases due to devaluation and, on the basis that they were not increasing their marging of profit, I raised no objection. I am concerned to ensure that the price the merchants charge for coal is related to the price they pay for it and that their margin of profit is not excessive. It would not be practicable for me to exercise control over the quality of the coal.
Could the Minister say if the price of coal from non-devaluing countries will be allowed to increase?
Yes. Increases have been permitted of coal imported from countries which have not devalued in respect of both coal which have yet to come in and coal which has come in and has to be paid for now in non-devaluing currency.