asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy whether he has any proposals to introduce any changes in the functions of the Restrictive Practices Commission.
Written Answers. - Restrictive Practices Commission.
434.
I have no plans at present to bring about any changes in the Restrictive Practices Commission's role under existing restrictive practices legislation.
435.
asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy the principal areas investigated by the Restrictive Practices Commission since he assumed office; and the results of such investigations.
I presume the Deputy is referring to inquiries and studies carried out by the Restrictive Practices Commission under the Restrictive Practices Act, 1972, as powers to carry out investigations are vested in the Examiner of Restrictive Practices only.
Since I assumed office the Restrictive Practices Commission have carried out inquiries into the supply and distribution of cinema films, and of newspapers, periodicals and magazines. As the Deputy is aware, the report of the first inquiry was presented to the Houses of the Oireachtas last month. The commission did not recommend legislation in the matter but recommended instead the making of fair practice rules. The making of such rules would be considered at the request of an association representing persons engaged in the supply and distribution of films. The report of the second inquiry has not yet been finalised by the commission.