§ 2. Mr. W. BAKERasked the President of the Board of Trade in how many cases trade associations in this country exercise a control over prices; and what commodities are affected by such Regulation?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI am not in a position to make a detailed and comprehensive statement of the kind which the hon. Member desires.
§ Mr. BAKERMay I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman will cause inquiry to be made in view of the great importance of this question?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-L1STERNo, Sir. If there is a particular item which is worthy of investigation, I shall be prepared to consider it.
§ Mr. B. SMITHIs it not the fact that associations exist for the control of prices, and, if that is so, cannot we get the information sought for by this House?
§ Mr. H. WILLIAMSMay I ask whether this control extends to taxicab fares?
Sir P. CUNLIFEE-LISTERI cannot answer the last question. As regards the other point, I have no statutory powers to make inquiry, and I much doubt whether a roving inquiry, where you have no specific grievance to be investigated, would be desirable.