§ 67. Mr. R. Morganasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the recent statement of a magistrate to the effect that if the public would realise it, by patronising cut-price shops they are lending their assistance to criminal activities; and whether he will consider the desirability of taking steps to cause some better supervision to be exercised over such establishments?
§ Sir S. HoareI am not aware of any recent statement of the kind to which my hon. Friend refers. The police are constantly watching for indications of criminal activities: but if the suggestion is that certain kinds of shops should be brought by legislation under special supervision or control, I can only say that I know of no sufficient grounds for such legislation.
§ Mr. SilvermanHas the right hon. Gentleman any power to control the more fatuous remarks of some magistrates?