HC Deb 14 July 1959 vol 609 cc204-5
40. Mr. Hamilton

asked the Lord Advocate what progress he has made in his investigations into the activities of the firm, of which details have been sent to him by the hon. Member for West Fife.

The Lord Advocate (Mr. W. R. Milligan)

Extensive inquiries are at present being made into the trading activities of the firm to which the hon. Member refers. As the activities of the firm were widespread the inquiries will inevitably take some time.

Mr. Hamilton

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that that answer gives a certain amount of satisfaction? Would he not agree that the activities of the Master Vending Machine Co. Ltd. have been thoroughly reprehensible? Will he take every step to ensure that further exploitation of quite humble people is brought to an end? Can he give an assurance that he will be in a position to give us a reply before the Recess?

The Lord Advocate

it would be inappropriate that I should express any view or criticism of the company until these investigations have taken place and have been fully considered. In view of the ramifications of the company, I am afraid I cannot give any undertaking that the inquiries will be completed before the end of this Session.