HC Deb 18 February 1930 vol 235 cc1126-7
17. Mr. REMER

asked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to the advertisement in a trade paper by Messrs. Japy Freres, a French firm giving a London address and no country of origin; why the Board of Trade have not prosecuted this foreign firm for infringement of the Merchandise Marks Act; and what is the policy of the Government in this connection?

Mr. W. R. SMITH

Following the usual practice, the Board of Trade communicated with the firm in question. A satisfactory assurance was obtained from them as regards future advertisements.

Mr. REMER

Will the hon. Gentleman answer the last part of my question? What is the policy of the Government in this connection?

Mr. SMITH

The policy pursued by the Department is to draw the attention of the firms in question to evasions unless they are too flagrant; and, if the offence is not removed, to take proceedings.

Mr. REMER

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there have been a great many of these evasions on the lines indicated in the question; and will he take steps to see that they are prevented by the sternest measures?

Mr. SMITH

If the hon. Member will give me any case in point, I will look into it.

Mr. REMER

May I ask the hon. Gentleman if he has really investigated this particular case, and if he will further look into the matter?

Mr. SMITH

I am assured that the offence or the evasion has been removed, and that the matter is now quite in order.