§ 7. Miss Burtonasked the President of the Board of Trade what guidance he has given to industries making consumer goods in view of the coming into force of the principal amendments to the Merchandise Marks Act on 1st February last; and what plans his Department has made to enforce the provisions of the Acts in the immediate future.
§ Mr. P. ThorneycroftI have issued a Press notice drawing the attention of traders to the provisions of Section 1 ofthe new Act and to the increased penalties for infringement; but I can give no specific guidance on these matters without involving myself in the interpretation of the Act, which would be an encroachment on the functions of the courts.
As regards enforcement, I am always prepared to consider prosecution in suitable cases when the circumstances warrant action by the Board of Trade.
§ Miss BurtonIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that all reputable traders, as well as their customers, will be very glad to know that he is prepared to institute proceedings where he considers it advisable? Is he aware that from 1938 only six proceedings were instituted by the Board of Trade, which is quite inadequate? Does he hope to be able to bring more proceedings now that the procedure under this Act has been widened?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftIt all depends on what circumstances are brought to my attention.