HC Deb 23 April 1917 vol 92 cc2032-4
56. Mr. MILLAR

asked the Prime Minister whether he has received a resolution passed on 4th April by the Convention of Royal Burghs in Scotland, representing all the burghs of Scotland, in favour of the prohibition of the manufacture and sale of alcohol during the continuance of the War and the period of demobilisation; and whether, having regard to the terms of this resolution and to the 550 petitions and resolutions forwarded to the Government and to the Central Control Board (Liquor Traffic), and the 200 petitions presented to Parliament, by public meetings of citizens, public bodies, local authorities, churches, and other organisations in Scotland in favour of prohibition of the manufacture and sale of intoxicants during the War, he is now prepared to give effect to the declared wishes of the Scottish people on this question?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The Prime Minister has received the resolution referred to. I fear I can add nothing to the answers which I have already given on this subject.

Mr. MILLAR

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is very widespread dissatisfaction in Scotland at the inactivity of the Government in this matter, and does he think it is right to ignore public opinion coming from such bodies as the Convention of Royal Burghs, representing all sections of opinion in Scotland?

Mr. BONAR LAW

No, I am not aware of the feeling to which the hon. Member refers, but it is obvious that this cannot be carried any further by question and answer.

Mr. MILLAR

I shall raise the question on the Adjournment on a very early date.

Mr. HOGGE

Has the Cabinet yet come to a decision with regard to the whole question of State purchase?

Mr. BONAR LAW

They have not come to any decision on the subject.

Mr. DEVLIN

When is there a likelihood of the Government coming to a decision on the question, as the universal opinion of all sane minds in this country and in Ireland is in favour of State purchase?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I am sorry I cannot make any statement as to the time when a decision will be made, but if the hon. Member is right there are a great many insane minds in this country.