HC Deb 25 February 1942 vol 378 c202
50. Major Stourton

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food, in view of the persistent and increasing activities of the black market in every city and town of this country, on what grounds it is considered inexpedient to increase penalties for such offences?

Major Lloyd George

In view of the fact that the Order-in-Council which increased fines was made less than three months ago and that many of the cases which are now coming before the Courts are in respect of offences committed previous to the penalties being increased, my hon. Friend would not feel justified as yet in asking for a further amendment of the Defence Regulations in this respect. He would have no hesitation whatever in doing so should he deem it advisable. I should be interested if my hon. and gallant Friend would furnish me with the information upon which he has based the statement in the first part of his Question.

Major Stourton

Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that this kind of thing will go on until the punishment is made to fit the crime?