§ 43. Mr. Lipsonasked the President of the Board of Trade what action he has taken with regard to detailed information that has been given him concerning a number of motor-cycles and motor-cars that are being stored in country houses, with a view to re-sale at inflated prices after the war?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade (Captain Waterhouse)I would refer the hon. Member to the reply 1934 which I gave to him on 26th November. The information which he has furnished has been communicated to the other Departments concerned, with a view to suitable action being taken.
§ Mr. LipsonIs my hon. and gallant Friend aware that those leisurely and easy-going methods will never stop this motor-cycle racket, and will he not take immediate steps to have a registration of motor cycles and provide for the requisitioning of those which are unreasonably withheld?
§ Captain WaterhouseI can assure my hon. Friend that our methods in this case are neither leisurely nor easy-going.
§ Mr. LipsonMay I have an answer to the second part of the Question about their registration and their being requisitioned?
§ Captain WaterhouseI have told my hon. Friend that suitable action is being taken.
§ Mr. LipsonMay we know what that action is?
§ Captain WaterhouseNo, not at the moment.
§ Major LyonsWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman consider applying the regulations for acquiring these vehicles and using them, as that would save the Ministry of Supply from having to buy them?
§ Captain WaterhouseI can assure my hon. and gallant Friend that the proper steps are being taken in consultation with the other Departments. The Board of Trade cannot act alone in this matter and do not wish to do so.