§ 39. Mr. Toucheasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the observation of Mr. Justice Charles, in the case of Rex v. Gurba Singh at the Lincolnshire Assizes, regarding the powers conferred on assistant accountants of his department to enter premises and caution individuals; and whether he will take steps to stop this practice.
§ Sir S. CrippsThe answer to the first part of the Question is "Yes, Sir" and to the second part "No, Sir."
The power to enter premises is essential to secure compliance with Orders made by the Board relating to essential supplies and a caution is administered in the interests of the person interviewed when an investigating officer is satisfied that an offence has been committed. Officers of the Board holding the rank of Assistant Accountant are responsible and proper persons to undertake investigations.
§ Mr. ButcherCan the right hon. Gentleman say how many officers of this Department have these powers?
§ Sir S. CrippsThat is another question.