HC Deb 06 April 1939 vol 345 c2974
22. Mr. Ridley

asked the Home Secretary how many prosecutions were undertaken in the borough of Ealing under those provisions of the Shops Acts which relate to hours of employment and meal intervals for assistants during the years 1935, 1936, 1937, and 1938?

Sir S. Hoare

I am informed that no prosecutions were undertaken in the borough of Ealing under the provisions referred to in 1935 or 1936; the number in 1937 was three, and in 1938, one.

Mr. Ridley

Does that information justify the House in assuming that these powers are not being used sufficiently by local authorities, including the local authority referred to in the question?

Sir S. Hoare

No, Sir. I would not draw that conclusion from the figures. I have had no complaints from the neighhourhood on the subject.