§ 89. Mr. COOTEasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland, in view of his suggestion to consider, amongst others, the claims of publicans in Ireland to compensation for loss of employment, if he is aware that the restrictions of the Board of Control do not operate in Ireland, nor is the retail trade restricted in any way; that the falling-off of the earnings of publicans is due to the higher prices of spirits and beer, and to the more enlightened and thrifty habits of the people; whether he will consider these conditions in respect of compensation; whether he is aware that hundreds of small public-houses are run by men of military age who should be fighting the German abroad; and if he will take into account also the claims of the many other trades who are ruined, not by natural causes but by the necessary Orders and restrictions of the Ministers of Food and Shipping?
§ Mr. DUKEThe Defence of the Realm (Liquor Control) Regulations, 1915, have not been applied to Ireland. The restrictions on the retail liquor trade in Ireland are those made with respect to hours of closing under the Intoxicating Liquor (Temporary Restriction) Act, 1914, those made by the competent naval and military authorities under Regulation 10 of the Defence of the Realm Regulations, and those resulting from the Orders relating to the output of alcoholic liquors. The last-mentioned are no doubt those which most largely affect the trade. All relevant considerations will be taken into account in dealing with the question raised by my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. COOTECan the right hon. Gentleman see any reason why these restrictions should not be applied to Belfast, where there is a great number of munition works?
§ Mr. DEVLINWill the right hon. Gentleman not resent this insuit to the loyal people of Belfast?
§ Mr. DEVLINI resent it.