§ 33. Sir CHARLES HENRYasked the Home Secretary if he is aware that certain places in London, under the denomination of clubs, are carrying on what is essentially a restaurant business and are in a position to keep open and trade without any restriction as to the hours of closing; and whether he will take into consideration the adoption of measures to ensure that hotels and restaurants, which are called upon to pay substantial licence duties and to conform to regulations as regards closing their premises, shall not be prejudiced and suffer disadvantage through this form of competition?
§ Mr. McKENNAThere has been in recent years a development in London of establishments known as supper clubs, the purpose of which is no doubt partly to supply food and entertainment to their members at an hour when licensed premises are closed. The Commissioner of Police informs me that these clubs have a legitimate membership and comply with the statutory requirements concerning clubs; but I shall, of course, consider the representations which I understand are to be made to me on the whole subject.