Richard Bruton
Ceist:25 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he has reviewed the various orders governing the pricing and distribution of petrol products; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Motor Fuels Pricing and Distribution.
The supply and distribution of motor fuels was the subject of a public inquiry carried out by the Fair Trade Commission. The interim report on the inquiry was published in September 1989 and I hope that the final report will be submitted to me before the end of the year.
The terms of reference of the inquiry included a review of the operation of the Restrictive Practices (Motor Spirit and Motor Vehicle Lubricating Oil) Order, 1981. The terms of reference did not explicitly refer to the orders made monthly under the Prices Acts. However, the interim report said that, in their full report, the Fair Trade Commission would recommend that price control on petrol and motor diesel be removed completely.
On receipt of the final report I will give consideration to any measures which will lead to an increased level of competition in this sector, including a review of the existing orders.