HC Deb 05 December 1963 vol 685 cc1347-8
20. Mrs. Slater

asked the Secretary of State for Industry, Trade and Regional Development if he is aware of the continuation of misleading advertising for the sale of certain knitting machines; and what action he proposes to take to prevent the extension of this kind of salesmanship.

Mr. Heath

My Department continues to receive complaints that certain advertisements for the sale of knitting machines are misleading. These complaints are being investigated by my Department and by Scotland Yard.

Mrs. Slater

While we are grateful for the investigation which Scotland Yard is undertaking into the activities of a number of firms, may I ask the Minister whether he would not agree that this is a racket and that in almost every district in the country this kind of advertising leaflet is put through their doors to persuade people that they can earn money, when the firms concerned have no intention of allowing them to earn money? Is not this a matter which we might refer to the Consumer Council so that it could investigate the whole racket?

Mr. Heath

I am sure that the hon. Lady would not wish to generalise about a particular case. No one would wish to pre-judge the issue until the investigation by the Department and Scotland Yard has been completed. In cases brought to our notice we are carrying out this investigation. The Consumer Council is already considering this matter and we shall await its views. It might be advisable that those who consider buying machines should make sure before they commit themselves that they are able to operate them efficiently and speedily.

Mr. Farr

Is my right hon. Friend aware that a large number of the machines are being sold to housewives on the promise of a contract of work and that this contract fails to materialise and the housewife is left with a large and useless machine on her hands?

Mr. Heath

This is one of the aspects which we are investigating.