HC Deb 13 June 1917 vol 94 cc929-30
50. Mr. PENNEFATHER

asked the Prime Minister if his attention has been called to the question of undue profiteering in connection with food; if so, whether the Government is satisfied that no undue profiteering exists or that steps will be taken to prevent it; and, if the latter, what steps will be taken, and when?

The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Bonar Law)

The subject is engaging the earnest attention of the Government, but I can make no statement about it to-day.

Sir H. DALZIEL

Can my right hon. Friend give us any intimation when a new Food Controller will be appointed?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I hope it will be possible to make an announcement this week.

Mr. KING

Has the hon. Gentleman the Member for the Wilton Division (Captain Bathurst) resigned his office as Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food or will he continue?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Yes, I much regret to say that owing to reasons of health, he has found it necessary to resign.

Mr. BILLING

Will it be possible to trace the profiteers and the amount that they have made?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member should hand in at the table any important question that he has, and let me see it.

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