asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will take steps to ensure that, in regard to the allocation of petrol and oil to Ireland, we shall not be called upon to pay a price in excess of the current price payable for oil and petrol originating in the Middle East.

The allocation of oil and petrol supplies to Ireland and other member countries is being dealt with by the O.E.E.C. It is not possible to state at present the basis on which allocations will be made or the sources from which supplies of oil and petrol will be procured. The Deputy may be assured that I am fully conscious of the importance of avoiding any unnecessary increase in the price of oil and petrol.