asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will ascertain when the manufacturers will increase the tobacco content of Players filter-tip and Bristol cigarettes, and what difference there will be in the size of such cigarettes as a result of the additional tobacco.

I am informed that the manufacturers still have under examination the proposed alteration in the tobacco content of Players filter-tip and Bristol cigarettes.

I have already informed the Deputy that the increase in the tobacco duty represented approximately 3½d. out of the 4d. per 20 increase in price, and that part of the remaining ½d. would be utilised for the purpose of increasing the distributors' margin. It will be apparent, therefore, that the variation in either size or tobacco content could not be significant.