asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he will be in a position in the near future to increase the allowances of tea and sugar to catering establishments in tourist districts; and whether the supply position is such as to permit him to grant similar allowances to persons who are anxious to start catering businesses in such districts.

Allowances of tea for catering establishments will be increased proportionately with the increase of the domestic ration, recently announced, which will come into operation next month.

The supply position does not permit of an increase in the allowance of sugar for catering establishments.

The answer to the second part of the Deputy's question is in the negative.

Will the Minister say why the ration of sugar cannot be increased?

Because there is not enough sugar.

Will the Minister give any consideration to the West Cork district, which, in the circumstances, is in special need of an allocation of sugar? I advise the Minister to go down there himself when he gets holidays.

Is the Minister aware that a large number of new hotels have been opened under the auspices of the Irish Tourist Board? Have arrangements been made by which these hotels will get a supply of tea and sugar?

The Deputy will have to give me notice of that question.

Are hotels under C.I.E. to get a supply of sugar? That is another question to which I should like to get an answer.

It may be another question but it is not on the Paper.

I will put it on the Paper.