HC Deb 07 November 1932 vol 270 cc7-8
15. Mr. T. WILLIAMS

asked the Secretary of State for India whether his attention has been drawn to the order, under Section 4 of Ordinance G of 1932, issued by the district magistrate of Midnapur, to the effect that a certain Balai Guchhait, of Chilmara, who used to sell vegetables daily in Anandpur bazaar, but had ceased to do so, should be com- pelled for one month from the date of receipt of notice to sell vegetables at least twice a week in Anandpur and report himself each time to the sub-registrar of Anandpur; and whether the use of ordinances in this way meets with the approval of his Department?

Sir S. HOARE

I have seen a question asked on this subject in the Legislative Assembly and am sending the hon. Member a copy of the proceedings. As he will observe, the matter has been brought to the notice of the Bengal Government.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Will the right hon. Gentleman reply to the latter part of the question; and does he think that it is consistent with dignity to promulgate such a ridiculous Order?

Sir S. HOARE

I cannot say whether it is a ridiculous Order until I obtain the information I require. It may have been a very useful Order.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether, when the Order was issued, any statement was made relating to the prices at which these vegetables which have to be sold are to be sold?

Sir S. HOARE

No, Sir. As this is not a Socialist Administration we cannot dictate prices in that manner. I have told the hon. Member, however, that I am making inquiries about this case, and I think that he will find, when I obtain the information, that the Order was thoroughly justified.