§ 19. Mr. THORNEasked the Home Secretary whether he has received a letter from the Essex county association of master bakers, asking for legislation to safeguard the health of those engaged in the industry and to restrain those 185 who practise methods of trading uncalled for by the public and detrimental to the welfare of the community; and what action he intends taking in the matter?
§ Mr. CLYNESThe letter to which my hon. Friend refers suggested a stricter enforcement of the existing law with regard to Sunday baking and delivery of bread, or preferably fresh and more effective legislation. The matter is regulated at present by the Bread Acts of 1822 and 1836, but the enforcement of these Acts is not a matter for which my Department is responsible, and I have no power to intervene. It is open to any person aggrieved, or any member of the public, to take action. As regards fresh legislation, I should of course be willing to consider any proposals that might be submitted, though I can see little prospect at present of the Government being able to find time for any Bill on this subject.
§ Mr. THORNEDoes the reply of my right hon. Friend mean that the local authorities are in a position to prosecute if offences take place?
§ Mr. CLYNES"Any member of the public, or any person aggrieved"—I think that that term does not rule out action by a local authority.