ANTI-PROFITEERING

Dominion, Volume 13, Issue 31, 31 October 1919, Page 8

ANTI-PROFITEERING

Sir,—lt would appear that our anti-profit-Trine legislation is absolutely valueless—a positive farce. Two cases have recently received considerable publicity—one represented by a Magistrate as ."unreasonable- profiteering," while, the other is so represented by the 13oard <5f Trade j and yet \v» are coolly told that our anlii-pr'nfitceriiig. legislat'on can Afford no relief or protection in such eases! What are our laws coming to? They seem to be specially framed to provide loopholes of escape for offenders. How cften do we rend of offences where the "finding" is: "Proved, but the offender cannot be convicted under the statute (or section of the statute) under which the charge is laid!" It is lime that a "tag" should be attached to every statute enabling every Magistrate and Judge to pronounce (subject to an appeal) on grounds of common senso and reason on every offence where such loopholes of escape- aro discovered. If a Magistrate or Judge considers that a real offence has been committed lit-nhould be'-Given power to deal with it. (subject to an appeal), in terms ot justice, common sense, and reason.—l am, etc., JUSTIOb.