asked the President of the Board of Trade if his officers have yet met representatives of Vactric Limited and Nortic Limited; and if he will make a statement.

asked the President of the Board of Trade when the report of the inquiry into the misleading coupon advertising of second-hand reconditioned washing machines, vacuum cleaners and sewing machines by firms intending to sell new machines by direct methods will be available; and whether it will be published.

The Chairman of Vactric Ltd. and of Nortic Electrical Ltd. at his own request has seen an officer of the Board of Trade. Other inquiries are still proceeding, and I cannot make a statement until these have been completed.

Is it not reprehensible that the hon. Member for Wednesbury (Mr. Stonehouse) should use the privilege of this House to make charges which are quite unsubstantiated, against reputable companies?

That is not a question within the Minister's responsibility.