HC Deb 07 May 1919 vol 115 cc928-9W
Mr. LORT-WILLIAMS

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the many burglaries and thefts of jewellery, plate, etc., and other small articles of value, in order to make the commission of these offences and the disposal of the goods less easy, and the offenders more readily traced, he will consider the advisability of introducing legislation requiring a form of certificate of origin subject to a revenue stamp of so many shillings in the pound to be filled in, verified by the signature of some responsible person, and presented upon the sale of all such articles sold second-hand?

Mr. SHORTT

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. A somewhat similar suggestion was considered some years ago, but was found to be quite impracticable.