HC Deb 19 July 1912 vol 41 c665
36. Mr. POINTER

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the practice of auctioneers at street corners who, in order to induce the public to purchase their wares, give articles away to persons in the crowd who are really confederates; and whether the police have any instructions to deal with cases where such deception is observed?

Mr. McKENNA

I believe such a practice has for many years existed. It does not necessarily involve a fraud within the criminal law. If a case of fraudulent imposition of a criminal character came to the notice of the police they would deal with it.

Mr. POINTER

Is it not practically a case of the confidence trick, and is it not fraudulent intention?

Mr. McKENNA

I do not feel competent to argue the point with my hon. Friend.

Mr. CROOKS

Have you ever attended one?

Mr. KING

Will the right hon. Gentleman institute a test prosecution with the object of bringing this matter to the notice of the public, and, if possible, of securing a conviction?

Mr. McKENNA

I think that is a question which should be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Attorney-General, and not to me.