HC Deb 20 March 1972 vol 833 c1068
24. Mr. Bidwell

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will vary the criteria for industrial development certificates when such applications are for the manufacture of candles.

Mr. Anthony Grant

All applications are considered on their merits.

Mr. Bidwell

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that during the fuel crisis caused by the miners' strike and the incompetence of the Government, there was a grave shortage of candles? Is he further aware that there was profiteering galore and that candles were selling for as much as 6p each in the West End? Will he now take steps for the production of candles at a much lower price in future against the day when the Government run us into another fuel crisis?

Mr. Grant

I am not aware of what the hon. Gentleman claims. My right hon. Friend said earlier that if there was any evidence of such profiteering it should be submitted to us, when we would investigate. Such evidence has not yet been forthcoming. In any event, I do not think that anything the hon. Gentleman has said is a case for altering the criteria for industrial development certificate control.

Sir C. Taylor

As candles are largely made from whale blubber, will my hon. Friend also now answer Questions Nos. 43 and 45?

Mr. Grant

In due course.