Mr. B. Harrison:

asked the Attorney-General if he will instruct the Director of Public Prosecutions to take proceedings against the firm of Fendars Limited for fraudulently raising money from the public by contracts to supply vending machines.

asked the Attorney-General, in view of the fraudulent activities of Messrs. Fendar Limited, wholesale tobacconists, of 28 Martin Lane, London, E.C.4, in connection with the supply of vending machines, what action has been taken by the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The Director of Public Prosecutions has no evidence that would justify the institution of proceedings against this company. If the hon. Members will let me have any evidence in their possession, I will, of course, see that it is considered.

Mr. Harrison:

Is my right hon. and learned Friend aware that since I put down this Question I have had dozens of letters from people all over the country who have been victims of this firm and other firms controlled by Anthony Fenton and O. Betts, and it looks as if tens of thousands of pounds have been taken off old-age pensioners and retired people in one way or another under the false premise that they could supplement their pensions with vending machines?

I can only repeat that there is at present no evidence which would justify the institution of proceedings against this company. If my hon. Friend would let me have such evidence or such documents, I will certainly immediately ensure that they are brought to the appropriate attention.

Is my hon. and learned Friend aware that this practice is very extensive in all parts of the United Kingdom and as far away as Glasgow, where this company has been operating on the lines suggested by my hon Friend?

My hon. Friend will appreciate that to institute proceedings evidence is required, and if evidence can be put forward it would be quite right for the hon. Lady to forward it to me to bring it to the attention of the appropriate authority.