HC Deb 20 February 1941 vol 369 cc269-70
39. Mr. Bartlett

asked the Home Secretary whether, in order to prevent profiteering, he will take over all available supplies of stirrup pumps for distribution at a standard price?

Mr. H. Morrison

Under an Order made by the Board of Trade stirrup pumps are already price-regulated goods under the Prices of Goods Act. I am informed that the number available for sale outside the Government scheme is inconsiderable, and in the circumstances I do not think that there would be sufficient justification for the course proposed by my hon. Friend.

Mr. Bartlett

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in one town at least that I know of over 50 people have put down their names at the local town hall for stirrup pumps at 21s., while just round the corner a shop is selling them at 30s., and ought not that to be stopped?

Mr. Morrison

That may be so, but it would be a negligible contribution to the problem, and would present administrative and financial problems out of proportion to the result that would be obtained.

Mr. Lipson

Can my right hon. Friend say what is the standard price?

Mr. Morrison

Not without notice.