§ 34. Mr. CLYNESasked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to a working-class protest demonstration held on 20th November outside a building in which the shareholders of Messrs. J. and P. Coats were meeting in Glasgow; whether the protest was against the high price of thread and the great increase in the profits of the firm; and whether, in view of the discontent, which is extending, because of high prices and enormous profits, he can take some step, by legislation or otherwise, to reduce both or make effective use of the Profiteering Act in this case?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI have been asked to reply. My attention had been drawn to newspaper reports of a demonstration of the kind referred to. With regard to the last part of the question, would refer the right hon. Member to the answer given by my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade to a question by the hon. Member for South Salford on 13th November, in which it was explained that prices, costs and profit in all stages in the manufacture of sewing cotton have been for some time under investigation, through machinery established under the Profiteering Act.
§ Mr. CLYNESIs it possible for the Profiteering Act to be applied in a case of this kind?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANAt any rate, it is possible to have it applied so far as investigation goes.
§ Mr. CLYNESCan my right hon. Friend say whether, after investigation, the Act can be applied by any act of the Government, instead of it being on the initiative of an aggrieved person?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI think I should like to have notice of that.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODIs it not the case that even under the Act a fine of £100 can be imposed?
§ Mr. ACLANDCan the right hon. Gentleman say when it will be possible to make a statement about the investigation, seeing the matter has given rise to a great deal of unrest?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI am afraid it cannot be very soon, because figures from abroad as well as at home have to be collected.