HC Deb 14 October 1952 vol 505 cc20-1
41. Mr. Dodds

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what success has been achieved resulting from the in- struction to the Inland Revenue Department to take a special interest in the returns from the sale of eggs in an effort to reduce the black market in eggs.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I regret that it would not be possible to furnish this information without a detailed investigation, which would not, I think, be justified.

Mr. Dodds

Cannot the Minister recollect that he gave an undertaking that this special instruction would be given early in July? Does he not think that there are important moral obligations even to the Treasury in this widespread black market, and will he not do something about it and give some undertaking?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

The hon. Member is confusing an undertaking of investigation, which has taken place, with his request in this Question for a special report on it. I do not think it would assist the inspectors in their efforts to have to divert their energies to compiling a special return on this special activity.

Mr. Dodds

When do we get some information as a result of the information given; or do we not get it?

Mr. Baldwin

Is my hon. Friend aware that the way to stop the black market is to have the so-called market prices put at the true value?

Mr. Hobson

Is the Minister aware that if he gets his right hon. and gallant Friend the Minister of Agriculture to allocate feedingstuffs for the poultry in proportion to the number of eggs returned to the packing stations the problem will be solved?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Perhaps the hon. Member will put that question down to my right hon. and gallant Friend.