HC Deb 20 June 1878 vol 240 cc1884-5
MR.MUNDELLA

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, Whether, having regard to the rapid increase in the number of out-door licences over which the magistrates have no control, and to the numerous memorials from magistrates and municipal bodies praying for a discretionary power over the granting of such licences, he will give his support to the Bill for this purpose which has already passed a Second Reading, or will introduce or support a measure suspending the further grants of such, licences until the Government is able to deal with the whole question?

MR. ASSHETON CROSS

Sir, I do not think that the introduction of a Suspensory Bill would be wise, unless legislation was immediately contemplated; and, so far as I can now form a judgment, to pass such a Bill would take as much time as if we dealt thoroughly and practically with the whole subject. Under those circumstances, I can make no promise to the hon. Member.