asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the date on which the latest licence for the manufacture of cement was issued; and if he will indicate the stipulation regarding the current and previous maximum prices which may be charged by the holder of a licence for cement manufactured at the factory pursuant to section 13 (l) (g) of the Cement Act, 1933.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cement Manufacture.
64.
There has been only one cement manufacture licence issued under the Cement Act, 1933. This was granted to Cement Ltd. on the 12th May, 1936.
The maximum price which might be charged by the licence holder was in the form of a condition attached to the licence under section 13 (l) (g) of the Act. The original condition specified a price ex-works, subject to a number of qualifications relating to manufacturing costs. The condition in question was varied on a number of occasions and in 1964 the condition was amended to read that the company should not charge higher home prices than those shown in the company's printed price list dated 10th October, 1960, except to offset increased costs which were outside the control of the company.
This condition was subject to review on or before 30th September, 1970. This period was extended to 31st December, 1970. The company have given an undertaking not to increase cement prices without the Minister's agreement until new conditions are settled.
When was that given?
Towards the end of the period of review, 30th September, 1970.
Was that after the two increases had been granted?
Yes.
It was not much of a guarantee in view of the fact that two substantial increases had been granted just before.