Mr. N. Smithasked the President of the Board of Trade what action he is taking to prevent the sale of elastic at prices above the controlled prices; how many prosecutions have been instituted; how many convictions have been obtained; and what penalties have been imposed during the last six months.
§ Sir S. CrippsDuring the six months ended 31st January, 1946, 37 prosecutions were instituted for the sale of elastic at excessive prices. In all these cases, convictions were obtained and fines amounting to£586 5s. 5d., together with costs of£156 19s. od., were imposed. In addition, one offender was sentenced to one month's imprisonment.