HC Deb 20 February 1956 vol 549 c7
18. Mr. McLeavy

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he has yet reviewed the Bradford experiment which provides for the inspectors of weights and measures to act as enforcement officers in respect to price and grading of coal; and if he will make an early statement to the House upon this experiment, and consider applying this method of public safeguard throughout the country.

Mr. Aubrey Jones

I have under review the Bradford experiment and a similar one made in Glasgow, and I would be ready to consider similar arrangements elsewhere should circumstances warrant it.

Mr. McLeavy

Is the Minister aware of the tremendous success of the experimental scheme at Bradford, as a matter of protection of the community? Would it not be in the public interest for the scheme to be applied throughout the country as soon as possible? Will the Minister be good enough to look into the matter personally and consider whether it would be possible to make an early statement to the House?

Mr. Jones

Yes, Sir, but circumstances vary from place to place, and success in one place does not necessarily guarantee success in another. For the rest, certainly where circumstances are appropriate I am quite prepared to consider the extension of the experiment.