§ 26. Captain W. BENNasked the Prime Minister whether it is the intention of the Government to renew the Profiteering Act when it expires in May next?
§ Sir P. LLOYD-GREAMEI have been asked to reply. The answer is in the negative.
Major BARNESWill the hon. Gentleman say whether the Government is going to consider the renewal of that portion of the Profiteering Act which provides for the investigation of the action of trusts and combines?
§ Sir P. LLOYD-GREAMENo, Sir; I do not think so. Hon. Members will recollect that in the Debate on the Board of Trade Vote I stated what was the intention of the Government with reference to legislation of this character. I think it would be much more satisfactory to allow the Profiteering Act to lapse, and to introduce, at the time when it will be required, legislation of a permanent nature.