HC Deb 20 July 1938 vol 338 cc2201-2
84. Mr. T. Johnston

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to make any statement regarding the introduction of legislation to mitigate the evils of share-pushing?

Mr. Cross

My right hon. Friend proposes to introduce a Bill dealing with this matter before the Recess in order that it may receive publicity, with a view to reintroduction next Session.

Mr. Johnston

In view of the long period of incubation of this legislation and the urgent necessity of preventing these rogues from getting as far as they do before the law is after them, will the hon. Gentleman undertake that this legislation shall take an early place in the Government's programme after we resume?

Mr. Cross

I cannot give a specific undertaking on the last point raised by the right hon. Gentleman. As he knows, this is a matter of very great complexity, and I can assure him that we are pressing on with it with all possible speed.

Mr. Gallacher

Will the hon. Gentleman promise to have a Clause put into the Bill prohibiting political share-pushing on the part of the National Government?

Colonel Sandeman Allen

Will the Government put a stop to Bill-pushing at the end of the Session?