§ Mr. FIELDasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that by a system of bonus and window-dressing, to the exclusion of other brands, the Imperial Tobacco Company or Trust have seriously impeded the business of Irish tobacco manufacturers and retailers; whether he is aware that in consequence of those operations there is an immediate danger of a tobacco factory in Dublin being closed and the disemployment of a number of hands; and whether he will make inquiry into this matter with a view to provide a remedy and enable the continuance of legitimate competition?
Mr. ROBERTSONI have no official information as to the matters to which the question relates, and, as at present advised, I do not see that any useful purpose would be served by the proposed inquiry. I shall, however, be glad to consider any definite information which the hon. Member may be in a position to supply.