HC Deb 25 February 1918 vol 103 cc1101-2
54. Major DAVIES

asked whether it is proposed to introduce a Bill for the purchase of the liquor traffic in this country during the present Session?

Mr. BONAR LAW

There is, I think, no probability of such a Bill being introduced during the present Session.

Mr. GULLAND

When will the Reports of the Liquor Trade Committees be published?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The last Report was only received the other day. If my hon. Friend will put a question later on I will answer it.

Mr. WHYTE

Does the right hon. Gentleman mean to leave the question where it is, or are we to expect a general statement of the attitude of the Government towards the whole problem?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I cannot hold out any hope that, amidst the pressure of business and other circumstances, we shall have time to bring in legislation.

Mr. HOGGE

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the Prime Minister stated that our greatest enemy was drink, and does this mean that the Government have surrendered?

Mr. BONAR LAW

We have had various enemies at different times, but our greatest enemy now is the Germans.