HC Deb 13 November 1958 vol 595 cc541-2
7. Mr. Fletcher-Cooke

asked the President of the Board of Trade what action he has taken on the Report of the Monopolies Commission on Imported Timber, published two months ago, which revealed that the trade continues to operate a system of exclusive lists of traders in spite of undertakings given to his predecessor

Sir D. Eccles

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade met yesterday the Timber Trade Federation to hear its representations about the Commission's findings. I am considering his report.

Mr. Fletcher-Cooke

Does my right hon. Friend not agree that it is most important, where voluntary agreements and undertakings were given in this difficult branch of the law, that if they are broken or seem to be broken drastic action should follow?

Sir D. Eccles

Yes, Sir.