HC Deb 22 January 1942 vol 377 cc435-6W
Mr. Goldie

asked the Attorney-General whether, with a view to the suppression of the offence commonly known as black-marketing and in order that more adequate penalties may be inflicted in the case of persons or firms found guilty of a second or subsequent offence, he will take steps to ensure that in such cases proceedings shall be taken by indictment and not by way of summary procedure?

Major Lloyd George

I have been asked to reply. I am well aware of the importance of this class of case and of proceeding by way of indictment in serious cases. I have issued instructions recently to the appropriate officers of the Ministry who deal with these prosecutions as to the importance of the matter.