36. Mr. Graham Whiteasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to make a statement with regard to the recommendations of the Non-Food Retail Trade Committee?
§ Mr. DaltonAs I explained to the House in the Debate on this subject of 23rd July, these recommendations have been strongly opposed by many of the trading interests most closely concerned. Moreover, legislation would be needed to give effect to them. In pursuance of the undertaking I gave to the House on 23rd July, I have been carefully examining, not only these recommendations, but also the views expressed by hon. Members in the course of a very useful Debate. I am now considering various practical proposals and I hope to make a statement at an early date.
Mr. De la BèreAre we to understand that the whole matter will be left to discussion between one side and another? Does not the Minister realise that this matter is of the gravest urgency? It all seems feeble, and something must be done about it.
§ Mr. DaltonI realise that it is a matter of the greatest urgency, and I have been pursuing it with the greatest energy in my Department; so have my officers, and so have certain people from outside who have been kind enough to help me. I hope that in a few weeks I shall be able to make a definite statement on the subject.