asked the Minister for Supplies if he is informed by the Éire tanneries of the total production by them of sole and harness leathers; and if he exercises any control on the distribution of sole and harness leathers by the Irish tanneries; and, if so, in what manner such control is exercised by him.

My Department does not at present control the distribution of sole and harness leathers. The possibility of introducing a scheme of control over distribution is being examined.