asked the Taoiseach if he will state the value of tins and food containers imported for the use of meat packers and the food processing industry in each of the years 1955 and 1956.

Imports are brought to account only in accordance with the commodity classification published in the Official Import List. This list does not separately distinguish food containers for the use of meat packers and the food processing industry and it is not therefore possible, I regret, to give exactly the information required. I propose, however, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to circulate in the Official Report a statement showing, according to the Official Import List, descriptions, the value of certain empty tin containers (including parts) imported in the year 1955 and in the period January-October, 1956.

Following is the statement:—

VALUE of certain empty tin containers (including parts) imported in the year 1955 and in the period January-October, 1956.