HC Deb 08 March 1917 vol 91 cc560-1
72. Colonel GRETTON

asked the Minister of Munitions if his attention has been drawn to complaints which are made against the abuse of the trade-card system; if he is aware that abuses are alleged to exist in the tinplate trade in Staffordshire; and if he will make inquiries with a view to modifying or withdrawing the trade-card system where abuses are shown to prevail?

Mr. KELLAWAY

My right hon. Friend is aware that complaints of abuse of the trade-card system have been made although he has received no specific instance from the tinplate trade in Staffordshire. As was stated in an answer to the hon. Member for Leigh on 1st March, the Government is now considering the whole question.

Mr. THORNE

Can the hon. Gentleman give us any indication as to how long the Government will be before they give a decision upon this all important question?

Mr. KELLAWAY

I know a Committee is sitting day by day in order to work out a satisfactory alternative scheme, and I hope we shall not have to wait long before we get results.