HC Deb 20 December 1962 vol 669 cc1427-8
25. Mr. Darling

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he is taking to prevent fraudulent sales of carpets by door-to-door salesmen.

Mr. Erroll

Where such sales concern goods in relation to which a false or misleading written trade description is used and the matter is brought to my notice, my Department will investigate and, where appropriate, will prosecute under the Merchandise Marks Acts.

Mr. Darling

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware—I am sure that he is—of the difficulties of dealing with this by the present procedure under the Merchandise Marks Acts? What is needed is amending legislation, as proposed in the Molony Report. Is he further aware that there is now evidence that eight firms are operating this door-to-door swindle of selling carpets, and that one of those concerned is an alien in this country? If we provide him with information about the activities of this American, will he consult the Home Secretary about the man's status?

Mr. Erroll

My Department has not received any complaints about the door-to-door sale of carpets for three years. If the hon. Member will let me have evidence, I will gladly have it looked into. I am having the final recommendations of the Molony Report looked into with regard to this subject.