HC Deb 15 November 1948 vol 458 cc8-9
13. Commander Noble

asked the Minister of Supply how many offers con stituting breaches of the Iron and Steel Orders have been investigated by his price investigations office since 1st January, 1946; on how many occasions were proceedings instituted; and how many convictions were obtained.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

Eleven offers to sell iron and steel above controlled prices have been investigated, and it has been decided not to prosecute. Nine cases are still under investigation, and I cannot say yet whether or not proceedings will be instituted.

Commander Noble

Can the Minister say why it has been decided not to prosecute?

Mr. Strauss

Because it was considered that the evidence was not strong enough to obtain a conviction.