HC Deb 27 February 1934 vol 286 cc916-7
16. Mr. SMEDLEY CROOKE

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will consider the advisability of taking steps to reverse the operation of the Merchandise Marks Act, so as to make compulsory the marking of all foreign goods in a manner which can easily be seen and to compel the foreign importer to apply for exemption from marking?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave to the hon. and gallant Member for Coventry (Captain Strickland) on 20th February.

Captain STRICKLAND

Has any fresh consideration been given to this urgent matter since then, and what is holding up a decision on the matter?

Mr. CROOKE

Does my right hon. Friend appreciate the fact that, if this suggestion were carried into effect, it would materially help to find work for the unemployed?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I do not know that I can draw that deduction, but there is no reason why we should not have honesty in trade marks.

Captain STRICKLAND

May I have an answer to my question as to whether further consideration has been given to this subject since?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Oh yes, certainly.