andMr. Bruton asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy when it is proposed to introduce legislation to deal with the problem of roadside and casual trading, as recommended by the Restrictive Practices Commission; who will be responsible for the legislation; the authority or authorities who will be responsible for enforcing it; and if the Bill has yet been drafted.

11.

andMr. Gilhawley asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy the amending legislation that he proposes regarding street traders.

With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 10 and 11 together.

The drafting of legislation to control casual trading is well advanced and the Bill will be introduced as soon as possible. It would be contrary to normal practice to give information on the probable details of the Bill in advance of its circulation. I can, however, tell the Deputies that the Bill will be introduced by me.

Can the Minister tell me if any progress has been made in the drafting of this Bill since the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy made a statement on the matter in Limerick and, if so, what progress precisely?

I can tell the Deputy that there has been a lot more progress made in the past few months than there was when he had responsibility for it in the Department.

The answer is no progress.

Would the Minister answer the question he was asked?

There is considerable progress being made in the drafting of a Bill and I hope to be in a position to introduce it shortly.

Has it gone to the Government?

I will be in a position to introduce it shortly.

Could the Minister state when "shortly" will be?

I could not give the Deputy an exact date.

Would it be before the recess?

It would be hoped, but I could not give the Deputy a definite commitment on that.

(Cavan-Monaghan): Has the Bill been cleared by the Government?

The Bill is at the drafting stage.

Has it been circulated to other Departments yet?

It is not my function to give that information.

Has it, because we circulated a Bill when we were in office and——

Question No. 12.

Deputy Bruton's record in that Department on that particular section does not bear——

Question No. 12.