§ Mr. Evelyn Walkdenasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware of the black market covering whisky, wines and 2085W spirits; and what action he is prepared to take to protect the general public and the licensing trade against exploitation?
Major Lloyd GeorgeI am aware that some members of the public, and some persons licensed to sell wines and spirits are prepared to pay extravagant prices for the limited supplies on the market. I see no reason, however, why my Department should provide protection for such persons.
§ Dr. Petersasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether his attention has been called to the black market in wines and spirits; and whether he will take steps, in conjunction with the Board of Trade and Ministry of Food to end this practice by taking powers to restrict and/or cancel wholesalers excise licences, or to grant the same only subject to such conditions as may make it impossible to carry on this black market to the prejudice of those genuinely engaged in the trade?
Major Lloyd GeorgeI have been asked to reply. I am not clear what my hon. Friend has in mind when he refers to a "black market" in the case of goods for which there is no price control. My Noble Friend sees no reason at the present time to prescribe maximum prices for wines and spirits and consequently, in the absence of a breach of the law, there would be no grounds for cancelling licences such as my hon. Friend suggests.