§ 17. Major Guy Lloydasked the Minister of Food how many forged emergency food coupons have come into the hands of his Department so far this year.
§ Major LloydIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is very considerable public concern over this matter, not only among consumers—the purchasers in the shops—but also among the traders themselves? While I realise that the right hon. Gentleman has given the only official figures available, may I ask him whether he will do his utmost to assure the public that everything is being done to prevent a spread of this trouble?
§ Mr. WebbYes, Sir. This is a serious matter, and it causes concern to the Ministry as well as to the trade. Numbers in recent cases have not been too large, and, though they were serious enough in themselves, they were quickly got in hand: but I can assure the House —and I am sure that the House will expect assurance—that we want to give the utmost attention to putting this matter right.
§ 18. Major Lloydasked the Minister of Food what precautions are taken by his Department to see that unissued emergency food coupons do not get into circulation.
§ Mr. WebbI am satisfied that the present precautions taken are effective; but I do not think that it would be in the public interest to disclose the actual arrangements.
§ Major LloydBearing that answer in mind, will the right hon. Gentleman also remember the remark of the Lord Chief Justice on this subject at a recent trial when he said, in connection with one incident, "There must be gross corruption somewhere"? Where is the corruption?