HC Deb 08 January 1942 vol 377 c37
70. Mr. G. Strauss

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that there was widespread complaint about the profiteering in toys during the period preceding Christmas; and whether any steps are being taken to punish the offenders?

Captain Waterhouse

Yes, Sir. I understand that some cases of alleged overcharging are already being investigated by local price regulation committees. The Board of Trade will certainly take proceedings in suitable cases.

Major Lyons

Has the Ministry received any representations about the colossal amount of profiteering?

Captain Waterhouse

Representations are not made to the Board of Trade but to the Central Price Regulation Committee through local committees.

Mr. Strauss

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that overcharging was very general and was not confined to just a few cases? There was very serious profiteering.

Captain Waterhouse

I am aware of that, and no doubt the local price control committees will be sending on their recommendations in due course.