§ MR. BRASSEY (Oxon, Banbury)I beg to ask the Attorney General whether his attention has been drawn to the decision of the justices of the peace for the petty sessions holden at Chipping Norton, in the county of Oxfordshire, on 29th December, 1897, when Sidney Lewis was convicted on the prosecution of the Queen at the instance of the Inland Revenue Commissioners for conveying in the way of his trade some of his workmen from their place of work to home, together with some of his trade plant, in a vehicle used solely for the purpose of his trade; and whether the Statute 32 and 33 Vic, c. 14, ss. 19 and 27, under which the prosecution was instituted, sanctions such a decision; and, if so, whether he will consider the desirability of proposing an amendment of the law to prevent a great hardship on small traders?
§ THE ATTORNEY GENERAL (Sir R. WEBSTER,) Isle of WightBy the courtesy of my honourable Friend I have seen a report of the case referred to in his Question. The conviction was in accordance with the Statutes which govern the matter. It has always been found necessary to enforce the law strictly; and as at present advised I do not think there is any necessity for an amendment.