asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether an increased butter ration will be available this winter.

The estimated rate of production of creamery butter during the current season has not been reached. It is unlikely, therefore, that there will be any increase in the existing butter ration during the coming winter.

Will there be a reduction?

I do not think so.

Is there any increase of butter going out to hotels, public or private?

No.

Have you an effective check on that?

Yes, so far as creamery butter is concerned. The Deputy will appreciate that I control creamery butter only.

Can you import any butter?

I doubt it. I could not answer that question. Inquiries are in progress.

That is something new in agricultural Ireland.