HC Deb 22 March 1920 vol 127 cc4-5
12. Mr. LUNN

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that Messrs. Courtaulds, Limited, silk manufacturers, made profits in 1919 amounting to £2,380,861, after provision for depreciation and taxation, representing 57 per cent. on the company's capital; and whether any inquiry is being made by the Central Profiteering Committee into the silk trade?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I am aware of the facts stated in the first part of the question. At present no investigation into the silk trade is being made by the Central Committee.

Mr. PEMBERTON BILLING

Will the hon. Gentleman give an assurance that in cases where 57 per cent. profit was made, they will note it?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

The House must not take it that it is not the intention of the Committee to investigate. All I have said is that no investigation has yet taken place. They are very full of work at present. No doubt the matter will be brought before their notice.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is it the intention to investigate?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I cannot say what is the intention of the Committee, but their attention will certainly be called to those questions, and they will certainly take notice of them.

Mr. HAROLD BRIGGS

Is my hon. Friend aware that Courtaulds' profits are not made from silk, as they do not manufacture real silk?