Small Traders.

Oral Answers to Questions — Trade and Commerce. – in the House of Commons at on 18 November 1941.

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Photo of Mr Herbert Williams Mr Herbert Williams , Croydon South

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the Location of Retail Businesses Order, 1941, he is prepared to take steps during the duration of that Order to prevent multiple shop organisations from buying up the businesses of independent retailers?

Photo of Sir Andrew Duncan Sir Andrew Duncan , City of London

As at present advised, I do not propose to extend the scope of the Order on the lines which my hon. Friend suggests.

Photo of Mr Emanuel Shinwell Mr Emanuel Shinwell , Seaham

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is throughout the country considerable discontent, particularly on the part of small retailers who have been thrown out of business as a result of the war, when they see the chain stores and multiple shop organisations flourishing? Is it not possible in some way to protect the interests of the smaller people and curb the activities of these octopuses in business?

Photo of Mr David Kirkwood Mr David Kirkwood , Dumbarton District of Burghs

Is it not the policy of our party, the Socialist party, to eliminate the small man?

Photo of Mr Emanuel Shinwell Mr Emanuel Shinwell , Seaham

Is my right hon. Friend aware that it is no part of the policy of any party in the House to eliminate the small business man in order to give advantage to the multiple shop organisations?

Photo of Sir Andrew Duncan Sir Andrew Duncan , City of London

This is obviously a very controversial question, but with regard to the specific point put to me, I would remind hon. Members that the Retail Trades Committee, which made a report on this subject, advised that it would be very unhappy if anything was done to limit the possibilites of sale for the independent traders.

Photo of Mr David Kirkwood Mr David Kirkwood , Dumbarton District of Burghs

Is it not the policy of the Government not to play into the hands of the multiple shop owners but to further the interests of winning the war?

Mr. De la Bère:

This matter cannot be lightly dismissed; indeed, it cannot be dismissed at all.