HC Deb 11 June 1928 vol 218 cc615-6
41. Mr. T. WILLIAMS

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he can now state how many convictions were registered in Great Britain during 1927 under the Merchandise Marks Act, 1887; in how many cases were more than one member of a firm or company proceeded against; and in how many cases were more than one person convicted for the same offence?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir William Joynson-Hicks)

I have been asked to reply to this question. The collection and examination of returns for 1927 is not yet complete. When it is, the number of convictions will he ascertainable, but I am afraid not the other particulars mentioned in the question.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Is it not important, in view of the working of the Merchandise Marks Act, that we should have a definite reply to the latter part of the question?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

If the hon. Member will wait until the return is available, I will see if it is possible to give any more information. I only put that in as a sort of caveat.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Will the right hon. Gentleman send me on the return when it is received?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Yes, certainly.