asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the Merchandise Marks Bill, which received a Second Reading in the last Session of the previous Parliament, will be re-introduced in the present Session?

It is not proposed to introduce Merchandise Marks legislation before Christmas.

Is not this Bill looked forward to by the trading community in the country with the greatest possible interest, and was not an assurance given that the Bill would be introduced in the Autumn Session?

As the hon. Member knows, this Session has assembled for a very particular purpose, and I think it is the general wish of the House that it should be got through as rapidly as possible.

Is it proposed to introduce this Bill next Session?

I do not think I can make a statement on that at present. The Cabinet has only just assembled, and all future legislation will have to be considered.

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that this Bill is looked upon with alarm by other sections of the trading community?

I shall take into account all relevant considerations.