HC Deb 07 November 1929 vol 231 c1245
67. Mr. WISE

asked the Minister of Health what action he proposes to take to deal with the inflation of the prices of building materials by trusts, price rings, and other trade organisations; and whether he intends to reintroduce this Session the Profiteering in Building Materials Bill of 1924?

Mr. GREENWOOD

This question is engaging my attention but I am not at present in a position to make any statement as to future legislation.

Mr. WISE

Would the right hon. Gentleman consider the extension of the powers of the proposed Consumers' Council to cover this point?

Mr. GREENWOOD

The powers of the Consumers' Council are under consideration.

Sir K. WOOD

Has the right hon. Gentleman's view on this question changed in any way?

Mr. GREENWOOD

Not so much as the view of many hon. Members opposite.

Lord E. PERCY

Are we to under stand that the Consumers' Council is to deal not only with foodstuffs, as announced the other day, but also with building materials?

Mr. GREENWOOD

I did not wish to convey that impression. My hon. Friend asked whether that could be considered, and I said that the question of the powers of the Consumers' Council was being considered.