36. Mr. POINTERasked 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. McKENNAI 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. POINTERIs it not practically a case of the confidence trick, and is it not fraudulent intention?
§ Mr. McKENNAI do not feel competent to argue the point with my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. CROOKSHave you ever attended one?
§ Mr. KINGWill 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. McKENNAI think that is a question which should be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Attorney-General, and not to me.