11. Mr. Gresham Cookeasked the President of the Board of Trade whether the date has now expired for receiving replies to the questionnaires which he issued in connection with his departmental inquiry into current practices in 1197 various trades with regard to resale price maintenance; what is the approximate number of replies which is to be examined; and whether he can give an approximate date by which he will be able to indicate whether the Government intend to make any legislative changes or to wait until there has been a longer opportunity for the provisions of the Restrictive Practices Act, 1956, to be assimilated by the various trades and industries concerned.
§ Mr. MaudlingYes, Sir. I am afraid that it will not be possible to take account of replies to questionnaires received after 7th October. But other evidence (oral and written) is still being received and considered. Very nearly 2,000 replies to questionnaires are being examined. I would like to take this opportunity of thanking all those who have assisted the Board of Trade in this inquiry, and to assure those who have given information that it will be most carefully considered. I cannot say when I shall be in a position to announce the Government's decision on these matters.
Mr. Gresham CookeDoes not the large number of replies to the questionnaire indicate the large number of trades affected and the great complexity of this question? In that respect would not my right hon. Friend therefore agree that there is no need to rush an early decision in this matter?
§ Mr. MaudlingI entirely agree.