HC Deb 03 December 1908 vol 197 cc1701-2
MR. FLYNN

I beg to ask the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) in reference to his statement at the Council meeting on the 24th instant that the Department intend to increase the number of inspectors with a view to the detection of fraud and adulteration practised by † See Questions and Answers circulated with the Votes this day. traders in Great Britain to the detriment' of Irish manufacturers and producers, whether he will consider the advisability of appointing one or more qualified lady inspectors in connection with the lace, crochet, and textile industries of Ireland.

MR. BIRRELL

The statement made at the meeting of the Council of Agriculture was to the effect that during the past six months the staff employed by the Department in Great Britain, for the detection of frauds had been increased by three assistants, and that a linen expert already in the Department's service had been detailed to deal specially with the question of frauds in linen goods. It is not proposed further to increase the staff at present. The Department have in their employment a lady inspector who is qualified to give expert evidence on samples of crochet, lace and other work of the kind.

MR. FLYNN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it was largely owing to inspection by a lady that huge frauds in connection with Irish lace were detected in London and a heavy fine inflicted on the offender

MR. BIRRELL

I will communicate that lamentable fact to the Vice-President.