asked the Minister for Agriculture if he had noted the adverse comments by the National Prices Commission with regard to fruit and vegetables on the market; and the action he proposes to take in the matter.

Quality standards for the main types of fruit and vegetables were introduced in 1973 and it is generally acknowledged that since then a significant improvement has been achieved in the grading and presentation of produce. My Department are continuing to supervise the enforcement of the prescribed standards at the different stages of sale and consideration is at present being given to a further extension of grading.