HC Deb 21 February 1945 vol 408 cc796-7
53. Sir Herbert Williams

asked the Minister of Food, in view of the remarks made by Mr. Rowland Thomas, K.C., magistrate at the Old Street Police Court, when dismissing two prosecutions initiated by his Ministry, why the prosecutions were initiated and instruct his officers not to act as agents provocateurs.

Colonel Llewellin

As a result of complaints that sales in excess of the maximum prices were being made at the shop in question, test purchases were made. The officials concerned in no way provoked the offences?

Sir H. Williams

Having regard to the comments of the magistrate that one of the officials knew the proper price was 1s. 6d. and paid 2s., was it not a most improper act on the part of the official?

Colonel Llewellin

No, Sir. The official going in always knows the proper price. If we get complaints about a shop continuously overcharging, the official goes in and has instructions not to provoke or in any way plead for a sale, but just ask to be served and pay what price is asked.

Sir H. Williams

In this particular case, was it not admitted in evidence that the proper price was displayed, and, therefore, there was no attempt at an offence on the part of the person prosecuted?

Colonel Llewellin

This particular prosecution failed, as my hon. Friend knows.