HC Deb 15 December 1955 vol 547 cc1383-5
39. Mr. Page

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that, although as a result of a report of the Monopolies Commission, the Timber Trade Federation abandoned certain restrictive lists, certain shippers' agents and brokers still adhere to the importers' list; and whether he will take steps to see that the undertaking given by the trade, in lieu of legislation, is observed.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

The Monopolies Commission did not recommend that the approved lists should be abrogated. It recommended that exclusive dealing agreements and undertakings between traders on these lists should be ended. The Timber Trade Federation agreed to do this, and I am assured by it that no such agreements are now in force.

Mr. Page

Is it not clear from recent public speeches by persons holding office in the Timber Trade Federation that the timber brokers are deliberately restricting new entrants to the importers' trade, and is that not against the undertakings which were given?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I have no doubt that some agents are dealing with some Importers on these lists, but the arrangement was that the agreements should be abrogated, and that has been done.

56. Mr. Jay

asked the President of the Board of Trade what action the Government propose to take arising out of the Report of the Monopolies Commission on the tyre industry.

58. Mr. Wade

asked the President of the Board of Trade what action he proposes to take on the recommendations contained in the Report of the Monopolies Commission on the Supply and Export of Pneumatic Tyres.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

I am considering the Report. I shall make a statement, in due course, about the action I propose to take.

Mr. Jay

Does the President realise that the revelations in this Report about restrictive practices in the industry have caused a good deal of public concern? Can he at least tell us how soon he will be able to announce some positive action?

Mr. Thorneycroft

The Report was published only on 8th December, and it was not until then that it was available to the industry, which should be given an opportunity of studying it.

Mr. Jay

How long has it been available to the right hon. Gentleman?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I have had it since 24th June. [HON. MEMBERS: "Oh."] It takes that time to publish a report of this complexity. We must give the industry an opportunity to study the Report before announcing action.

Mr. Wade

Is the President aware that the public is becoming increasingly uneasy about these practices? Will he further agree that these practices, some of them secret, which have been brought to light by these Reports, are continuing nearly eight years after the passing of the Monopolies and Restrictive Practices Act, 1948, which indicates that that Measure was inadequate? Can he say how soon the promised Bill will be introduced, and whether, in the meantime, any steps other than conversations will take place?

Mr. Thorneycroft

It is hoped to introduce this Session the Measure to which the hon. Member has referred.