asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to any proposals to increase the VAT on bituminous coal and to reduce the VAT on smokeless coal as outlined in a report (details supplied); whether any such proposal would create severe hardship to that section of the community least able to afford it and would also increase inflation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Value Added Tax.
87.
I have seen the speculative media report to which the Deputy refers. He will be aware that Government measures to combat the problem of smoke pollution have been announced earlier this week by the Minister of State for Environmental Protection. The detailed measures announced do not involve any changes in taxation.