§ Mr. NIELDasked the President of the Board of Trade whether the Committee appointed to inquire into allegations against the tobacco trust and others of profiteering consequent upon the increased prices to the consumer have yet reported; what is the need for any communication or negotiation with these people who have seized upon the imposition of an additional duty of 1s. 10d. on the pound to exploit the public to the extent of 2s. 8d., and in some cases 3s. 4d., per pound; and whether steps will be taken to examine the books of these persons and firms and compel payment over of the additional profit received to His Majesty's Treasury?
Mr. ROBERTSThe Tobacco Control Board have not yet made their report of their inquiry into the present prices of tobacco, but they hope to do so at an early date. I am unable to reply to the latter part; of the queston until my right hon. Friend has received this report.