97. Mr. J. JONESasked the Food Controller whether his attention has been drawn to a resolution of the Islington Local Food Control Committee expressing regret that they are hampered in their endeavour to protect the public from fraudulent practices on the part of the food retailers, on whom the fines inflicted have no effect; whether he has been supplied with a list showing the penalties inflicted for breaches of Food Ministry Orders; and whether any action is being taken in the matter?
Mr. ROBERTSMy attention has been called to the Resolution referred to by the hon. Member. It is always rather invidious to comment on penalties inflicted by magistrates of experience, but I am clear that the comparative leniency of the fines more recently imposed has discouraged the Islington Food Control Committee in its efforts to secure the observance of the Orders issued by my Department for the protection of the public, and I am in communication with the Home Secretary on the subject.
§ Mr. RAPERWill the right hon. Gentleman consider substitution of imprisonment in every case for fines?