HC Deb 16 June 1959 vol 607 cc220-1
12. Mr. Hamilton

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many letters he has received concerning the trading activities of the firm about which the hon. Member for Fife, West has sent him further particulars; and whether he will make an interim statement on the progress of his investigations.

Mr. J. Rodgers

Thirteen letters, including three forwarded by the hon. Member, concerning this company and its associated companies have been received. A compulsory winding up order in respect of the company was made on 1st June, and it is the duty of the Official Receiver to investigate the company's affairs and report the result to the court. There may, as a result of the investigation, be scope for criminal charges to be brought.

Mr. Hamilton

Whilst thanking the hon. Gentleman for that reply so far as it goes, does he not agree that the facts revealed by the three cases which I have sent him—I have others which I will send to him—indicate a scandalous state of affairs? Will he take every step to ensure that the managing director who escaped to Italy with the boodle is brought back to justice?

Mr. Rodgers

I have every sympathy with the hon. Gentleman in this matter, but I do not think it would be wise for me to comment further on the legal aspect at the moment. However, it would be advisable for hon. Members to recommend to their constituents that, before investing hundreds of pounds, they should consult a solicitor.

Mr. Nabarro

On a point of order. Can we be told what "escaped with the boodle" means? Is this not an un-Parliamentary expression?

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member for Kidderminster (Mr. Nabarro) ought to ask the hon. Member for Fife, West (Mr. Hamilton) what it means.