HC Deb 16 December 1952 vol 509 cc1170-1
8. Mr. Langford-Holt

asked the President of the Board of Trade what matters have already been the subject of discussion by the Monopolies Commission; and what matters he has referred to the Commission on which no decisions have yet been reached by him.

Mr. H. Strauss

Since the answer contains a table, I will, with my hon. Friend's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

We have received only one report dealing with goods for which my right hon. Friend is the competent authority, and that report, dealing with matches, will be published in due course.

Mr. Langford-Holt

Is my hon. and learned Friend aware that there is a feeling that the delay in matters which are referred to and disposed of by the Monopolies Commission is undesirable as it is not in the interests of either industry or the community to have allegations unanswered or not dealt with for such long periods?

Mr. Gibson

When are we likely to see the proposals for extending and improving the work of the Monopolies Commission and for enabling it to come to decisions more quickly?

Mr. Strauss

I cannot make any announcement on that subject today.

Following is the table:

Subject Referred Report received Report laid before Parliament
1. Dental goods 1st March, 1949 3rd November, 1950 1st December, 1950
2. Cast-iron rainwater goods 1st March, 1949 17th February, 1951 14th March, 1951
3. Electric lamps 1st March, 1949 4th September, 1951 4th October, 1951
4. Insulated electric wires and cable 1st March, 1949 26th April, 1952 10th June, 1952
5. Matches 1st March, 1949 3rd October, 1952 —
6. Match making machinery 1st March, 1949 3rd October, 1952 —
7. Insulin 12th December, 1950 7th August, 1952 14th October, 1952
8. Semi-manufactures of copper and copper based alloys (a) 12th December, 1950 — —
9. Printing of woven fabrics 16th April, 1951 — —
10. Imported hardwood and softwood timber and plywood 8th October, 1951 — —
11. Electrical and allied machinery and plant 4th April, 1952 — —
12. Pneumatic tyres 19th September, 1952 — —

(a) Calls for a report only on the facts; the other references cover both the facts and public interest.