§ Mr. Lyonsasked the President of the Board of Trade what steps are being taken in cases of known overcharging brought to his notice already?
Major Lloyd George:As my right hon. Friend has said, in answer to previous questions on this subject, inquiries are being made in all cases which come to his notice where there is reason to suspect that overcharging has taken place. In a 1970W few cases, some of the charges which had been imposed on account of the cost of war risks insurance have been reduced in consequence of this action; in others, facts justifying an increase in price have been elicited. Where the reply is unsatisfactory, the question is being further pursued. As my right hon. Friend has already informed the House, the Government intend at an early date to introduce legislation on the subject.
§ Captain Pluggeasked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the fact that Members are receiving statistical details of alleged profiteering in their respective constituencies, he will establish a small staff to handle all such complaints which may be sent in to him, and will at least make inquiries into the different cases?
Major Lloyd George:I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the answer which my right hon. Friend gave to the hon. Member for Seaham (Mr. Shinwell) on 21st September. As he then explained, immediate inquiries are being made in cases brought to his notice where prices have recently been raised. Inquiries are being made in every case where the complaint appears to be substantial, and if my hon. and gallant Friend will communicate to me details of any complaints which he has received I shall be glad to have them looked into.