§ 42. Mr. W. THORNEasked the President of the Board of Trade the total quantity of Government sheep and lambs sold to the firms of Bates and Bates, Hartridge and Bates, and Bates and Chappell during the year 1916; whether he is aware that allegations as to gambling in meat are being made in Smithfield against these firms; whether since the War they have acquired several new premises in the market; and whether, in view of the undertaking previously given by his Department to promptly inquire into any case of meat-cornering, he will at once institute an inquiry, compel these firms to produce their books, and also take evidence from the persons who have sold them the goods?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. G. Roberts)These allegations were inquired into more than six months ago, when the matter was fully dealt with. There have been no subsequent complaints, and it does not appear necessary to re-open the question.