HC Deb 09 November 1948 vol 457 cc1385-6
71. Mr. S. Shephard

asked the President of the Board of Trade when he proposes to take action against persons or firms who are selling in the home market lace which should be exported.

Mr. Bottomley

Several cases are in the hands of the Director of Public Prosecutions and further investigations are being made, but the majority of firms are loyally fulfilling their export obligations.

Mr. Shephard

Is the hon. Member aware that I was given that answer some months ago? Is it not time that these black market racketeers in lace were brought to book?

Mr. Bottomley

I said the matter was in the hands of the Director of Public Prosecutions.