§ 45. Mr. WATTasked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to the resolutions passed by all sorts of public bodies in Scotland as to the advisability of suspending the sale of intoxicating liquor there during the War period; if so, in view of these resolutions, would he consider the wisdom of suspending the sale of ardent spirits in Scotland during the War period, and giving to the liquor trade as compensation for this suspension of spirits-selling an extension of time beyond the year 1920 of the Temperance (Scotland) Act, 1913, equal to the time of suspension?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe attention of the Prime Minister has been drawn to the resolution in question. I have nothing to add to what the Prime Minister said with regard to beer and spirits in his speech in the House last Friday.
§ Mr. BONAR LAWIt is not a question between the trade and the Government only. The question is how it would be regarded by those affected by it.
§ Mr. PRINGLEHas any special means been taken to ascertain what is the feeling of all classes in Scotland?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWIt is not very easy to find out the information to answer that question. The Government have carefully considered it, and we are not prepared to take any steps.