asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that an order valued at £18,000 was given by the Office of Public Works to an agent representing a German firm for the supply of wire ropes; and if Irish firms were given an opportunity of tendering.

As a result of competitive tendering two contracts for the supply of steel wire ropes of German origin, valued at about £12,400, were placed in September, 1959. Irish firms were afforded an opportunity of tendering.

Did any Irish firms tender?

Yes, at least one Irish firm tendered.

Were English firms afforded the opportunity?

Both English and Irish firms tendered.

What was the difference between the Irish tender and the German tender?

That is a separate question.

I do not know whether I should give the exact figure but I should say that, having allowed for the duty which in the case of the tender received was 37½ per cent., there was a wide margin.

Will the Government withdraw the advertisement in support of Irish manufactured goods?

There is a very substantial protective duty amounting in the case of continental firms to 37½ per cent.