HC Deb 06 April 1914 vol 60 c1594
21. Mr. LANE-FOX

asked whether the recent Regulation of the Insurance Commissioners prohibiting the meeting of friendly societies on licensed premises is to be maintained, or are the Commissioners considering its withdrawal?

Mr. BENN

As I have frequently stated, in answer to questions, a proposal to restrict the use of licensed premises by approved societies in England at the end of five years was recently discussed by the Advisory Committee, but no Regulations have been made, or laid before Parliament, and no question of withdrawing them therefore arises; and in no case will such Regulations be made without previous consultation with societies.

Mr. WORTHINGTON EVANS

Has the proposal been withdrawn altogether?

Mr. BENN

There is no proposal.

Mr. WORTHINGTON EVANS

Will the hon. Gentleman try to ascertain what the meaning of the proposal is? Will he ask whether there was any proposal to make a Regulation, and if the Regulation has now been withdrawn?

Mr. BENN

Nothing has been withdrawn.

Mr. WORTHINGTON EVANS

Does the right hon. Gentleman deny that the proposed Regulation was submitted to a meeting of the Advisory Committee, and has that proposal now been withdrawn?

Mr. BENN

In my answer to the question I have stated that the matter was discussed with the Advisory Committee, but no Regulation was made.