§ Brigadier-General Sir OWEN THOMASasked the Food Controller if, in view of the general unrest throughout the country, he is prepared to take drastic action against profiteers of all classes, such action to include prompt trial and, on conviction, heavy sentences of imprisonment without option of fines?
Mr. ROBERTSSo far as essential foodstuffs are concerned, profits are limited by the fixing of prices at every stage of production and distribution. In cases of any breach of Statutory Orders proceedings are promptly taken and penalties imposed which, until recently, at any rate, appeared adequate. 1 may say that the total number of prosecutions during the four weeks ending 28th June were 2,194, of which 90.3 per cent. were successful. The desirability of restricting profits, otherwise than as above, and the nature of the penalties proper to be, imposed, form part of a. general policy and are outside the sphere of a single Department. I would remind the hon. and gallant Member that these matters constitute the reference to the Select Committee of this House which is now sitting.