HC Deb 10 May 1956 vol 552 cc1397-8
16. Miss Burton

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that a certain type of hire-purchase agreement, details of which have been sent to him by the hon. Member for Coventry, South, was criticised as improper by Judge Clothier last month; that a member of the public, not being a lawyer, would be deceived as to his rights under the law when given an agreement of this nature; and whether he will introduce legislation to prohibit this type of agreement.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

I have read the Press report of the case to which the hon. Lady has drawn my attention, but as it is still sub judice, I prefer not to offer any comment at this stage.

Miss Burton

Referring to the past, is the President of the Board of Trade aware that the judge was referring to the firm of J. and F. Stone of Edgware Road, and the Chain Store Finance Trust, which are the same company? Is he aware that in November, 1952, each was fined £5,000 plus 150 guineas costs for entering into dummy rental agreements, and that firms like that ought to be legislated out of action?

Mr. Thorneycroft

If the hon. Lady will forgive me, I am very anxious not to comment on the past record or the present facts of this case, as it is still being considered.