§ 19. Mrs. Mannasked the Minister of Fuel and Power how many prosecutions last year were brought against coal merchants for describing coal as a superior grade to that actually received from the colliery, and for charging the price for a grade superior to that actually delivered.
§ Mr. RentonIn 1955 there were, in all, 165 prosecutions for overcharging of various kinds, including those mentioned by the hon. Lady.
§ Mrs. MannCan the hon. and learned Gentleman say whether the prosecutions were restricted to Bradford and Glasgow, where the weights and measures inspectors have power to check that the grade charged for is the grade delivered?
§ Mr. RentonNo, Sir. These prosecutions took place in different parts of the country, and were not confined to those two cities.
§ Mrs. MannWill the hon. and learned Gentleman ask his right hon. Friend to try to get the Bradford and Glasgow system extended throughout Great Britain, as that system is greatly appreciated by housewives in those cities?
§ Mr. RentonThat is a matter for consideration, but I should tell the hon. Lady that the methods of detection are improving all the time.