§ 46. Mr. THURTLEasked the Prime Minister if his attention has been drawn to the rapid development of trusts and industrial and financial combinations whose object is to coerce the consumer into paying higher prices for necessary commodities; and if he is prepared to take legislative action with a view to protecting the interests of the consumer against such trusts and combinations?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI have been asked to reply. I would refer the hon. Member to the Debate which took place in this House on 22nd March on the Motion of the hon. Member for the Tradeston Division, and to the statement then made on behalf of the Government. For the reasons then given, I do not propose to initiate any legislative action.
§ Mr. CONNOLLYHas the right hon. Gentleman yet received a deputation from the joint committee on the question of shipbuilding materials and equipment?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERNo, Sir.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODHas the right hon. Gentleman considered the effect of his Cinematograph Films Bill on the trustification of that industry?
Sir P. CUNLILFE-LISTERYes, I am satisfied that the result of that Bill will be to protect exhibitors in this country against foreign combinations.