SHOPS (EARLIER CLOSING).

HC Deb 19 December 1916 vol 88 cc1296-7

48. Mr. CURRIE

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to a circular issued by the leading cocoa manufacturers in the country threatening the Government with a long and bitter struggle as to the Early Closing Regulations; whether funds have actually been raised to prosecute an organised movement of this kind by Messrs. Cad-bury, Messrs. Rowntree, and others; and whether he intends to take any action?

Sir G. CAVE

I have been asked to answer this question, as the Order referred to was issued by the Home Office. I have no information with regard to the circular mentioned in the question, nor is the Department aware of any organised resistance to the Order.

Mr. CURRIE

If I send the right hon. Gentleman a copy of the circular will he give it consideration?

Sir G. CAVE

Certainly.