HC Deb 18 July 1916 vol 84 cc845-6
62. Sir RICHARD COOPER

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has inquired into the constitution of the firm of W. Lang, 97, Hop Exchange, London, S.E., who purport to manufacture cream separators in Sweden; and is he satisfied that this firm is not directly connected with German industry?

Mr. HARCOURT

The attention of the Board of Trade does not appear to have been directed to this firm. Inspectors have now been appointed, and on receipt of their report I will communicate with the hon. Baronet.

63. Sir R. COOPER

asked if the firm of M. J. Oppenheimer, bristle merchants, of 88a, Leaden hall Street, E.C., is in process of being wound up; and, if so, can he say that recent consignments which this firm has made to America and sales of bristles in this country are composed solely of material in stock at the time the winding up order was made, and that this firm is being wound up as speedily as is practicable?

Mr. HARCOURT

Yes, Sir; the firm in question is being wound up under an Order of the Board of Trade. It is understood that outstanding contracts may necessitate some prolongation of the winding-up, but the Board are in communication with the Controller, in the hope that means may be found to minimise any such delay. Subject to this there is no reason to doubt that the winding-up is being proceeded with as expeditiously as practicable. Meantime, certain small purchases have been made by the Controller for the requirements of customers who are making large purchases from stock, but the winding-up is in no way prolonged by any such transactions, and they have only been authorised on that condition.