§ 45. Colonel ASHLEYasked the Prime Minister why a wine merchant is not allowed to deliver wine or spirits to a customer till the amount due for the goods has been received?
Mr. HOPEI have been asked to answer this question. I am informed by the Central Control Board that the prohibition in question has for some time past formed part of the standard Order of the Central Control Board. As I have previously stated, I understand there will be no change in the policy of the Board pending the establishment of the new Authority, which it is proposed to create by legislation.
§ Colonel ASHLEYSeeing that the Armistice was concluded many months ago, what possible justification is there for this autocratic ordinance during peace, that a man cannot order a dozen of port from his wine merchant without sending the money beforehand?
Mr. HOPEI speak for the Central Control Board only by accident. I will inquire what is their reason.
§ Colonel ASHLEYWill my hon. Friend convey my remarks to the Central Control Board?
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEDoes my hon. Friend realise that the continuance of the Regulation causes inconvenience to people who desire to give presents to people who are ill?
Mr. HOPEI have myself experienced the inconvenience of the Regulations, but as a humble member of the Government I thought I ought not to complain.
§ Mr. W. THORNEIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the members of the Central Control Board want the Board dissolved as speedily as possible?