§ 24. Sir J. Mellorasked the Minister of Food why the London Divisional Food Office discontinued investigations in May, 1947, into the case of R. Teelings, Limited, who were convicted in October, 1948, at the Old Bailey; and what additional evidence caused his enforcement headquarters to reopen the case.
§ Dr. SummerskillThe first investigation related to a complaint by one retailer in respect of a single transaction and the evidence obtained at that time was considered insufficient to justify proceedings. Further information from a member of the public led to other inquiries.
§ Sir J. MellorWas not the offence admitted to the London Divisional Food Office in May, 1947, and, in those circumstances, why was it necessary for considerable pressure to be brought upon headquarters before the prosecution was undertaken?
§ Dr. SummerskillI agree. I think proceedings should have been initiated in the first case. The hon. Gentleman will be pleased to hear that the enforcement officers concerned have been dealt with in an appropriate manner.