HC Deb 14 July 1914 vol 64 cc1697-8
42. Mr. CHIOZZA MONEY

asked the Attorney-General if his attention has been directed to the existence of agreements between manufacturers on the one hand and retail tradesmen on the other, by virtue of which the former bind down the latter not to sell goods to the public for less than a definite fixed price; and whether, in view of the artificial raising of prices caused by the widespread practice of this trade policy, he will advise proceedings to be taken to test the legality of the practice, as it has been tested in the United States of America?

The SOLICITOR-GENERAL (Sir Stanley Buckmaster)

I regret that I do not know what kind of proceedings my hon. Friend refers to. I cannot advise the Crown to take proceedings unless illegality appears to exist.

Mr. CHIOZZA MONEY

Will the right hon. Gentleman allow me to send in specific instances of this particular practice?

Sir STANLEY BUCKMASTER

I have no objection to receiving particulars of any instances which the hon. Member may forward.

Mr. CHIOZZA MONEY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that these proceedings have been taken in the United States of America in the Supreme Court?

Mr. HUNT

Is the practice of keeping up prices portion of the Free Trade system of this country?

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