§ Mr. LANE-FOXasked the Prime Minister whether he has received from a number of petty sessional divisions resolutions passed by the justices asking for the control and power of restriction of drinking clubs; and whether he proposes to take any action in the matter?
§ The PRIME MINISTERResolutions to the effect indicated in the question from a considerable number of benches of magistrates (mainly borough benches) have been received in the Home Office. The matter is one which must form an integral part of any measure of Licensing Reform, and Part IV. of the Licensing Bill of 1908 was devoted to it.
§ Mr. SAMUEL ROBERTSHas the right hon. Gentleman seen a copy of the Committee of Clubs Bill, and has not the principle of the Bill received approval?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am afraid I have not yet seen a copy, but I will be very glad to look at it.
§ Viscount HELMSLEYIs it not a fact that the necessity for these refreshment clubs has arisen entirely owing to the restriction on public-houses?