asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that the British Board of Trade refuse to issue licences for the export of fish barrels to Éire; and if, in view of the scarcity of fish barrels in this country, he will allocate shipping space in the near future for the importation of barrel staves.

I am aware that fish barrels are scarce in England and it is unlikely that their export to this country would be permitted. I am also aware that they are in short supply here.

I have not received any applications for shipping space for staves for fish barrels. I will be prepared to consider any such applications.