HC Deb 30 November 1916 vol 88 c472
62. Mr. CLYNES

asked the Home Secretary whether he has received from the Manchester and district wholesale and retail confectioners a petition stating the hardships arising from the Early Closing Order, and asking that there should be some extension of the opening hours for shops, especially during the two weeks preceding Christmas Day; and, if so, whether he has been able to consider the petition, and is he able to consent to such extension?

Mr. SAMUEL

I hope to be able to make a statement on this matter in the course of a few days.

Mr. CLYNES

Will the right hon. Gentleman take into account the very serious effect which the Order has on the livelihood of small shopkeepers, and the absurdity of it being legal to sell a meat pie if hot, but not if it is cold?