asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the reason for the present very high retail price of meat in Dublin; if he is aware that many people can no longer afford to purchase it; and if he has any proposals to meet this situation.

I have had the recent increase in the price of meat in Dublin reviewed. I am informed that the increase, in the main, reflects the higher prices prevailing for cattle as a result of increased demand for export markets. In this connection, I would refer the Deputy to my replies to questions on meat prices on 21st May, 1964, Dáil Debates, volume 209, column 1909 and on 5th March, 1964, Dáil Debates, volume 208, columns 434 to 435.

Can the Minister hold out any prospects of an early reduction in present prices?

As long as the present prices for cattle remain, the effects on prices are likely to be reflected at the retail level, naturally.

Could I——

I am not allowing any more supplementary questions until the questions are finished. That would mean 150 supplementary questions.

This is no longer Question Time, just answer time.

I thought the British market had gone forever.

I never said that.

No, but the Minister's colleague said it.