HC Deb 26 February 1917 vol 90 cc1653-4
2. Mr. MacVEAGH

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will consider the advisability of issuing licences to dealers in trades controlled by the Government, so that in cases where the maximum prices are exceeded the licences may be withdrawn and the offending traders thus prevented from further trading?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. G. Roberts)

If the hon. Member would be good enough to give me particulars of the trades he has in mind, I shall be glad to consider whether any steps such as he suggests can be taken if the matter is one that concerns the Board of Trade. If it is not, I will call the attention of the appropriate Department to the suggestion.

Mr. FIELD

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has received any communication on the subject of the depletion of men engaged in the refrigeration industry; and whether, in view of the effect of such depletion upon the food resources of the country, he will take steps to avert such a result?

Mr. ROBERTS

I am aware of the importance of cold storage in this country, and I understand from the Reserved Occupations Committee that this trade is receiving a considerable measure of protection under the list of certified occupations.