HC Deb 18 June 1942 vol 380 c1679
57. Sir L. Lyle

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food to what extent there are signs that increased penalties have caused any reduction in black marketing?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Mr. Mabane)

As the increased penalties have been in force for less than three months, it is too early at present to judge whether these penalties are acting as a substantial deterrent to black market operators.