asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state the reasons for the proposed increase in the price of tea.

The increase in the price of tea recently authorised has been caused by the higher level of sale prices in India and Ceylon following the re-introduction of free auction markets in those countries. After allowing for the expenses of the Tea Importing Company the average landed cost of the tea recently imported is higher by approximately 1/4 a lb. than the similar cost of tea previously imported. The margin allowed to wholesale merchants has been reduced by 2d. a lb., leaving the net increase to consumers at 1/2 a lb.

Does the Minister intend to reduce, either by subsidy or otherwise, the effect of the 1/2 increase, or is it to be borne entirely by the consumer?

It has been decided not to subsidise the price.

Will the quality of the tea be as good as the tea we were getting formerly?

I should think so.

Will it be any better?