HC Deb 16 February 1943 vol 386 cc1586-7
56. Mr. Neil Maclean

asked the President of the Board of Trade the number of No. 8 torch batteries that have been supplied to wholesalers in Glasgow during the three months ended December, 1942; and the number supplied in January, 1943?

Mr. Dalton

According to information supplied by a number of the larger manufacturers, wholesalers in Glasgow received about 260,000 No. 8 batteries during the last three months of 1942, and about 53,000 in January, 1943. In addition, substantial deliveries were made direct to retailers.

Mr. Maclean

Can the right hon. Gentleman give any information as to where these-went, because there are few on sale in the shops?

Mr. Dalton

I could not follow them beyond. Glasgow.

57. Mr. Maclean

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether is is aware that dealers in No. 8 batteries and torch-cases in Glasgow refuse to sell a battery separately but will offer a torch-case and battery and an extra battery to the customer; and whether, in view of this proof that No. 8 batteries can be sold to those already possessing torch-cases of that type, he will issue a warning to all dealers who impose such conditions on purchasers?

Mr. Dalton

Except in the circumstances laid down in Section 9 of the Goods and Services (Price Control) Act, 1941, it is an offence for a trader who has a stock of torch batteries to refuse to sell them, or to impose a condition that the buyer must also buy a torch case. I am advised that a refusal by a trader to sell a battery in the circumstances described by my hon. Friend is a breach of the law. If he will let me have full details, including the names of the traders concerned, I will make immediate inquiries.

Mr. Maclean

Has not the right hon. Gentleman any investigators going round to find out these cases as from my own knowledge a few dealers are conducting trade in these batteries on these lines?

Mr. Dalton

Yes, Sir, we have officers whose duty it is to move about the country and acquaint themselves with what is going on, but I shall be very grateful if my hon. Friend will give me any particulars he has in his possession.