asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will introduce legislation to ensure that the multiple stores shall be prevented from making further inroads into the business of the little shopkeepers wherever practicable, in view of the additional hardships and difficulties that the small shopkeeper is facing since the outbreak of the war?

Although I appreciate the hardships and difficulties to which my hon. Friend refers, I am unable to introduce legislation of the kind he suggests.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the small shopkeeper is the backbone of this country and should have every possible protection and consideration?