§ 74. Mr. Austinasked the Minister of Food whether, in view of the continued food shortage, he will consider the seeking 83W of further powers in regard to black-market and other offences, with a view to increased penalties for such offences.
§ 93. Mr. Nallyasked the Minister of Food whether he is satisfied that the present scale of maximum penalties that can be imposed by the courts for serious food offences is adequate.
§ Mr. StracheyI shall not hesitate to increase the wide powers of fining, imprisonment or withdrawal of licences against black market and other food offenders if that becomes necessary. But from recent sentences, including terms of imprisonment up to 18 months, I am at present satisfied offenders are getting what they deserve.