§ 45. Mr. Francis Noel-Bakerasked the President of the Board of Trade what action he took in respect of an illegal advertisement, referred to him by the hon. Member for Swindon on 25th August last, which contravened the Advertisements (Hire Purchase) Act, 1957; for how long the illegal advertisement appeared; what information he has concerning other similar advertisements; for how long such advertisements appeared; and what action he will take to prevent similar offences in future.
§ Mr. DarlingThe directors of the company concerned and its advertising agents were interviewed and agreed to change their advertising to comply with the requirements of the Act. This they appear to have done. Similar cases which are brought to the Board's attention are investigated.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerWith respect, my hon. Friend has not said for how long the advertisement appeared. Does he consider it enough to interview people who are breaking the law? Why was not a prosecution instituted?
§ Mr. DarlingBecause we thought that we could get the advertising changed much more quickly this way.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment.