§ 50. Mr. WIGNALLasked the Prime Minister if he is aware of the unrest existing among the miners and others resident in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, in consequence of the War Restrictions (Liquor Control) not having been withdrawn in accordance with the promise of the Government that these restrictions would be removed at the end of the War; whether he has received petitions and resolutions calling upon the Government to carry out their promise; whether he is aware that the Forest of Dean is the only constituency in Gloucestershire where the restrictions are still imposed; and whether he will take immediate steps to withdraw the existing restrictions in accordance with the wishes of a very large section of the constituency?
Mr. HOPEI have been asked to answer this question. I am informed that some resolutions and petitions of the nature described in the question have been involved. I would refer my hon. Friend to the answers given by the Leader of the House on 9th December.
§ Captain W. BENNIn coming to any decision about the relaxation of liquor control, will the Government bear in mind the severe economic competition with which we are faced from a dry America?
Mr. HOPEI have no doubt the Government will bear in mind everything that is relevant to a proper consideration of the question.
§ Mr. WIGNALLWhy is a distinction made in this part of Gloucestershire compared with other parts of the country?
Mr. HOPEI do not know for certain, but I presume that at the time the restriction was proposed it was considered that that part of Gloucestershire required it.