Consumers should check that VAT reductions are passed on to them from January 1st, the Minister responsible for consumer affairs, Mr Tom Kitt, has said.
The standard rate of VAT has been cut from 21 per cent to 20 per cent.
Mr Kitt said the Government would be watching the situation closely and would be influenced in responding to calls for reductions in VAT in the future by the extent to which retailers honoured their obligation to adjust prices downwards.