HC Deb 27 February 1922 vol 151 cc13-4
5. Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he has yet had an opportunity of investigating the; prices now being charged for beer to the public; and whether thin Board of Trade has any proposal for protecting the public if the charges of profiteering against the brewers are substantiated?

Mr. BALDWIN

I am causing inquiries to be made, but I cannot anticipate speedy results in view of the pressure on my staff. I do not think that a renewal of official control is desirable.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

What is the use of holding an inquiry if the Board of Trade propose to do nothing in the case?

Mr. BALDWIN

We cannot decide whether to do anything or nothing until we have made the inquiry.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Does the Board of Trade intend to take any action if the charges mentioned in the question are substantiated?

Mr. BALDWIN

It depends entirely upon the result of the inquiry.

Major KELLEY

I sincerely hope the Government will make inquiries, and if they find the brewers are profiteering they will prosecute them—and I am a brewer.