asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that at present the apple crop in Kerry is an uneconomic proposition and that several farmers are left with last year's apple crop on hands; and, if so, whether he will make an Order prohibiting the import of apples from Northern Ireland or abroad, and also arrange that freight on apples from Kerry be reduced in view of the fact that at present the cost of sending a ton of apples from Kerry to Dublin is £7 and that the producer has also to pay 6/- for bushel boxes.

I am aware that the fruit trade generally has been dull this season and that apples, with the exception of popular dessert varieties, have been slow to clear. I am not prepared to prohibit the importation of apples from Great Britain or the Six Counties, but I would like to point out to the Deputy that such apples are subject to a duty of 1d. per lb. The importation of apples from other countries is not permitted. I am not in a position to arrange for a reduction of freight charges.

Does the Minister consider that 1d. per lb. is a sufficient protective tariff?

We are exporting apples at present.

From Dungarvan.

Is the Minister aware that less than 20 per cent. of this duty is paid on apples coming from the Six Counties and is he prepared to increase the tariff even to the extent of complete prohibition?

Our position is that we are exporting apples.