HC Deb 30 November 1950 vol 481 cc1297-8
20. Mr. Joseph Hale

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will inform the House of the progress being made in the census of distribution; and when he expects the census to be completed.

Mr. H. Wilson

Preparations for the census of distribution to be taken in 1951 are well advanced, and forms for completion will be issued to traders at the beginning of next year. If the forms are returned promptly I hope that some tabulated results will be available by the end of 1952.

Mr. Hale

Can my right hon. Friend assure the House that he will resist any pressure that this census should be abandoned?

Mr. Wilson

Yes, Sir. I have already made clear the attitude of the Government on that question.