HC Deb 18 November 1948 vol 458 cc552-3
32. Colonel J. R. H. Hutchison

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many prosecutions under the Merchandise Marks Act, 1887, have been instituted by him in connection with the sale of goods falsely described as Scotch whisky.

Mr. H. Wilson

None, Sir.

Colonel Hutchison

In view of the Minister's powers under this Act, has his attention been drawn to liquids bearing such labels as "Whisky McAndy," "The Cameron," "Highland Bonnie." and others?

Mr. Wilson

I have no means of checking them, but it is a fact that so far as communications with the Board of Trade are concerned we have had no evidence of false description of Scotch whisky. In any case the Scotch Whisky Association can themselves take a case to court under the Act, as they did in 1938.

Colonel Hutchison

If I send the Minister the opportunity of tasting will he undertake to taste?

Mr. Wilson

I could not quite hear what the hon. and gallant Gentleman said, but I shall be happy to listen to any proposal he may wish to make.