(Cavan-Monaghan) asked the Minister for the Environment if there has been a decrease in the price of imported timber in the last 12 months; if so, the percentage decrease; and if this decrease has been reflected in the house building cost index.
Written Answers . - Imported Timber Costs .
208.
: The average price per tonne of imported coniferous sawn timber decreased from £149.50 to £135.53 or 9.3 per cent between April 1977 and April 1978, the latest month for which figures are available. The timber element in the house building cost index, which is related to the trade price of timber, has remained static over the period in question as trade prices have not reflected the decrease referred to. I am bringing this aspect of the matter to the attention of the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy for any action he may consider necessary under the Prices Acts.