asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether any representations have recently been made to him regarding the working of the Shops Act, 1912; and if as a result he is prepared to set up a Committee to consider amending legislation.

Representations on the lines indicated in the question have been made to me. I have decided to refer the matter to a Departmental Committee for investigation and report.

Would the Parliamentary Secretary state if there is any known occasion in which a Report of a Departmental Committee set up by the Minister for Industry and Commerce has been acted on?

Yes.