HC Deb 06 July 1916 vol 83 cc1652-3
31. Mr. PETO

asked the Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Munitions whether the proposals of the Central Control Board to purchase licensed houses, breweries, etc., can be postponed until such a time that the electors of the United Kingdom are allowed to vote and express their opinions as to whether they consent that public moneys shall be utilised for such undertakings?

Dr. ADDISON

A postponement of these proposals for the period suggested by the hon. Member would be totally inconsistent with the purpose for which the Control Board was established under the I authority of the Act of Parliament.

Mr. FABER

Before the State becomes brewer and publican, will the opinion of Parliament be taken?

Dr. ADDISON

All I can say is that the Board is empowered to do these things by Act of Parliament.

Mr. WATT

When this Board was first appointed was it intended that they should purchase public - houses and breweries?

Dr. ADDISON

I do not know what was intended, but I know that powers were conferred on the Board by Act of Parliament.

Mr. PETO

Will the right hon. Gentleman consult the OFFICIAL REPORT of the Debate and see what was said as to the intention?

Dr. ADDISON

I do not think I need do that. What we are acting under is what is contained in the Act of Parliament.

Mr. KING

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that better beer is supplied in these public-houses?

Sir F. BANBURY

Are we to understand that we are not to attach any importance to statements made by Cabinet Ministers when Bills are proceeding through this House?

Dr. ADDISON

No doubt we attach great importance to them. This Board is operating under an Act of Parliament, and their operations are governed by Act of Parliament and not by what is said in the House.