asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he has investigated the possibility of car parks at dog-racing tracks being used for black market operations in foodstuffs and other commodities?

Major Lloyd George:

Yes, Sir.

Are any steps being taken to suppress these operations, and does not my right hon. and gallant Friend appreciate that it is serious that operations of this kind have gone on for some time without proper investigation?

Major Lloyd George:

I am sure my hon. Friend will appreciate that a car park is not the easiest place to approach without being seen. There are many places, other than car parks, where this sort of thing goes on, and while we are doing everything we possibly can it will be appreciated that there are difficulties.

Has any action been taken at all—have any arrests been made, or any prosecutions instituted?

Major Lloyd George:

I cannot say without notice whether prosecutions have been instituted on evidence acquired in car parks, but many prosecutions have taken place and convictions have been obtained.

Can we not ask citizens who see this going on to play their part and report to the authorities?

Major Lloyd George:

It would be a great help.

Did not the original promoters of the West End wine, whisky and spirit auction belong to this bookmakers' fraternity, and did not the Board of Trade sell the large bulk of the whisky at a salvage auction at £1 6s. 9d. a bottle to many of these people?

Major Lloyd George:

That would not alter the fact that it does not make it any easier if they meet in car parks. There are so many other places where they can meet.

But is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman following up the clue contained in the Question?

Major Lloyd George:

The Question refers to car parks, and in reply I said that I am aware of the possibility; after that, it becomes more difficult.