HC Deb 10 October 1939 vol 352 cc139-40
8. Mr. R. C. Morrison

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the borough of Tottenham has received a quotation for hurricane lamps of over £40 per gross, as compared with their standard contract rate of £26 15s. 9d. per gross; and whether he will issue instructions to local authorities and other large purchasers of hurricane lamps to refrain from purchasing at these rates and investigate the reason for the rise in price?

Mr. Stanley

My Department is in touch with the borough council of Tottenham over this matter, and the reason for the rise in price of hurricane lamps is being investigated. I have no authority to advise the local authorities or other large purchasers of hurricane lamps to refrain from buying at this or any other price, but I know what I should do in similar circumstances.

Mr. George Griffiths

What would the Minister do?

Mr. Stanley

I should not buy.

Mr. Griffiths

Then you might be left in the dark.

Mr. Stanley

I am accustomed to that.