asked the Minister for Finance whether he will consider the advisability of permitting the importation of commercial cars into the Saorstát duty free for a period of six months, so as to encourage manufacturers of this type of car, who intend to manufacture in the Saorstát as soon as plant for the purpose can be installed here.

I am not satisfied that the manufacture in this country of commercial motor cars would be encouraged by the temporary exemption of such vehicles from Customs duty; and, in consequence, I cannot see my way to seek power to grant such exemption.

Is the question of exemption of duty on motor cars in the Saorstát under consideration at the moment?

No.