67. Mr. De la Bèreasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to make some statement regarding the Government's proposals for dealing with the position of small shopkeepers; and whether he proposes to implement some of the recommendations contained in the Third Report of the Retail Trade Committee?
§ Mr. DaltonI have put certain proposals to the interests concerned, and these are 1079 now under discussion. I hope to make a further statement shortly.
Mr. De la BèreCan my right hon. Friend tell me to which interests he has put these proposals? It is very important that that should be stated, in view of the widespread anxiety that exists throughout the country. We should know a little more than just "certain interests." It is in the public interest that this matter should be discussed.
§ Mr. DaltonI hope to make a statement shortly. I would rather not say more at the moment.
§ Mr. DolandIs not the Minister aware that his predecessor considered this matter, over 18 months ago, as of urgent importance?
§ Mr. DaltonYes, Sir, but unfortunately the recommendations made by the committee set up by my predecessor were not acceptable to the trade, and they have had to think again.