HC Deb 11 July 1944 vol 401 cc1567-8
31. Sir H. Williams

asked the Minister of Food whether he will make inquiries into the complaint of a resident in Southern England who sought to send his wife and three young children to stay at a medium class hotel in North-West England and was asked to pay £3 3s. a day for board and lodging, to sleep out, with a condition that at least payment for one month had to be made in advance.

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

Yes, Sir, if my hon. Friend will furnish me with the necessary particulars.

Sir H. Williams

Having regard to the fact that I sent to the Department the other day the name and address of the hotel, and the name and address of the person on whom the proposed infliction was to be imposed, can my right hon. Friend say why he now asks me for information?

Mr. Mabane

Because I have no knowledge of such a letter, and often I have found that suggestions are not in accordance with facts.

Sir H. Williams

But having regard to the fact that I sent the letter last Thursday or Friday, surely the Department ought to have received it by now?

Mr. Mabane

It has not been received by me.

Sir H. Williams

I sent it to the Board of Trade.

Mr. Mabane

I am not at the Board of Trade.

Sir H. Williams

I tabled the Question to the Board of Trade as they are responsible for goods and prices. The Board of Trade transferred it to the Ministry of Food, but apparently failed to send on the necessary communication.