I move that Seanad Eireann hereby approves of the Sugar (Prohibition of Import) Order, 1940.

This order is made under the Sugar (Control of Imports) Act, 1936. That Act empowers the Government, by order, to prohibit the importation of sugar save under licence and provides further that licences may not be issued except to Comhlucht Siuicre Eireann Teoranta. A prohibition order was accordingly made in April of this year which continues the prohibition of the importation of sugar into Ireland for the further period of 12 months, that is as from the 1st May last to the 30th April next. The Act provides that any prohibition order made under it shall cease to have effect on the expiration of six months from the date of its making unless it has been approved by the two Houses.

That would not cut down the supply of sugar?

Not at all. On the contrary, thanks to the fact that we were able to confer these powers on the Sugar Company, so that they might fulfil their obligations, I think we are reasonably secure as regards a supply of sugar for a considerable period.

We are all glad to have that assurance.