§ 10. Sir W. Smithersasked the Minister of Fuel and Power how many prosecutions there have been for illegal use of petrol since the new regulations came into force; and how many have been successful to the latest available date.
§ Mr. GaitskellThe hon. Member is no doubt referring to prosecutions under the Motor Spirit (Regulation) Act, 1948. Ten cases have been taken up to 15th September, all of which were successful
§ Sir W. SmithersDoes not the fact that:here have been very few successful prosecutions prove that the whole thing has been a farce, and does it not also show. by imposing regulations which have no real force, the right hon. Gentleman is Compelling private people to become criminals?
§ Mr. GaitskellUnlike the hon. Member, I am glad there have not been more prosecutions, and I am satisfied that the deterrent effect of the Act has been very considerable.