§ 67 and 68. Colonel ASHLEYasked the Minister of National Service (1) whether Sergeant R. A. Thurtell, late Royal Field Artillery, after serving three years in France, applied for a licence to open a hairdressing business at Ipswich; that this was refused on the ground that it would compete unfairly with other shops owned by men now serving; whether, in view of the fact that this man was fighting for his country during the years that other tradesmen now being called up were carrying on their business, and the fact that by the decision referred to this man is virtually debarred from earning his livelihood, he will reconsider the case; 1719 (2) if a preference is given to ex-Service men of good character when licences are applied for to start a business; and, if not, will a preference be given in future?
§ Mr. BECKThe primary object of the Shops Licensing Order is to protect the businesses of serving soldiers. If an ex-Service man proposes to start a new business which would injure the existing business of another soldier serving with the Colours the object of the Order is being defeated just as much as if the applicant had never served in the Army. Apart from this general consideration, the Ministry is very desirous of assisting discharged soldiers, and any application made by Sergeant Thurtell to start a business which is not open to the objection referred to will be favourably considered.
§ Colonel ASHLEYIf a man has served three years in France and comes home, if he applies for permission to open a hairdresser's shop, what possible objection can there be?
§ Mr. BECKThe objection is that he is seriously damaging the business of another soldier who is a hairdresser in the near neighbourhood.
§ Colonel ASHLEYrose—
§ Mr. SPEAKERWe cannot argue this case. The hon. and gallant Member has had a very clear answer.