asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce (a) if the tariff on agricultural machinery was imposed in consequence of any recommendation by the Tariff Commission; (b) if not so imposed, what were the reasons that weighed with him in imposing the tariff in view of the fact that the present output of such machinery is inadequate to meet the agricultural needs of the country, and whether he has obtained any guarantees as to the sale price of such machinery?

No recommendation has been made by the Tariff Commission relating to agricultural machinery.

The tariff was imposed to avoid industrial injury pending the adoption of permanent measures to protect and develop the industry. I have no doubt that the adoption of such measures will secure an output of home manufacture sufficient for the needs of the country. No guarantees were sought or obtained on the matter of price before the Order was made, but the manufacturers will have to satisfy me that no undue advantage is being taken of the tariff to the prejudice of agriculture.

Is the Minister aware of the fact that already prices for parts of agricultural machinery have gone up considerably and will he look into the matter and see if something can be done to prevent any further impositions on the farmers?

The Order was made on the receipt of information that certain abnormal importations of agricultural machinery were taking place. Permanent proposals for the protection and development of the industry will be submitted to the Dáil later on.