HC Deb 15 March 1956 vol 550 cc536-7
11. Mrs. Mann

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that knitting wool is sold in large quantities at one-ounce weight which is only approximately one ounce and, as these labels are misleading, if he will take steps under the Merchandise Marks Acts to stop this practice.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

No, Sir. I have not received any complaints on this subject, but if the hon. Lady will let me have particulars I shall be glad to examine them.

Mrs. Mann

As this wool is sold in every kind of large store, it will be very difficult for me to send it to him. The right hon. Gentleman will find all the particulars in Command Paper 8219, on weights and measures legislation, where this practice is referred to and the statement follows that "these practices have laid the door wide open to abuse." Will the right hon. Gentleman now take action under the Merchandise Marks Act, or has he deteriorated so far from the days when he introduced the Bill for analgesia?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I was not aware that the hon. Lady had in mind the recommendations of the Hodgson Committee. I am aware of them and, of course, they will be brought into account in any legislation that may be introduced.