asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that Japanese artificial pearls are being imported into this country to the detriment of Irish firms who assemble such pearls, and, if so, if he will take such steps as are necessary to prohibit the imports in question.

I am not aware that imports of Japanese artificial pearls are adversely affecting the interests of Irish assemblers.

If the firms engaged in the assembly of artificial pearls are being adversely affected by such imports I am prepared to consider any representations which they may wish to make jointly to me in the matter.