asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that the Alliance and Dublin Consumers' Gas Company are compelling all new consumers to take shilling slot meters; that this new departure is a hardship on the lower wage groups, poor people and old age pensioners, and whether he will take steps to prohibit this practice, if necessary by introducing proposals for legislation to that effect.

I have no functions in regard to the manner in which the Alliance and Dublin Consumers' Gas Company secure payment for gas supplied. I have, however, made inquiries from this company and I have been informed that they do not compel new consumers to take shilling slot meters. The remaining portion of the Deputy's question does not accordingly arise.