§ MR. MACKARNESSI beg to ask the Prime Minister whether he is now in a position to state whether the Government 560 will take steps to secure that, in regard to all new licences, the holders shall enjoy complete freedom of contract in the purchase of their liquors.
§ MR. ASQUITHThe Government, as my hon. friend knows, are in sympathy with what they believe to be his main object in this matter, and they are considering whether it will be possible on the Report stage to accept or introduce some provision which will neither be too wide nor ineffectual for the purpose.
§ MR. J. MACVEAGHMay I ask whether the Government will include the holders of old as well as new licences?
§ MR. ASQUITHThat will be considered.
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURMay I make an appeal to the Prime Minister that, if there is to be another Amendment on Report, due notice may be given?
§ MR. ASQUITHAmple notice will be given.