HC Deb 09 July 1919 vol 117 cc1807-9
52. Lieut.-Colonel THORNE

asked the Prime Minister if, when the new Commission is set up to deal with the liquor question, he will give favourable consideration to the workmen's clubs having representation on such a body?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The hon. and gallant Member's suggestion will be borne in mind.

Lieut.-Colonel THORNE

How long will it be before the names of the Commissioners are announced?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I hope it will not be long, but I cannot name any time.

Mr. LAMBERT

Will it necessitate a Bill?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Yes.

66. Sir J. D. REES

asked the Prime Minister if he will state when the Output of Beer Restriction Amendment Act of 1916 will be repealed; what obstacle exists to the immediate revocation of the Intoxicating Liquor (Output and Delivery; Order; who are to be the members of the Liquor Commission; and what are to be the powers of this new body?

Mr. BONAR LAW

As I have already stated, the Government have decided that all restrictions as to the quantity of beer which may be brewed should be removed, and that an increase in the gravity of beer should be permitted. The necessary steps are being taken as rapidly as possible with regard both to the Output of Beer Restriction Acts, and also the Intoxicating Liquor Output and Delivery Orders in their application to the quantity and quality of beer, but it is considered necessary to retain the provisions of the latter orders relating to spirits. With regard to the third and fourth parts of the question, I am unable to anticipate the terms of the proposed Bill, which has not yet been finally considered by His Majesty's Government.

Sir J. D. REES

What is the object of creating an artificial whisky famine?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I thought I had given a satisfactory explanation. I am afraid I cannot add anything to what I have said.

67. Sir J. D. REES

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction which prevails in the Eastern Midlands on account of the retention of the restrictions in respect of liquor imposed during war-time upon clubs?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of MUNITIONS (Mr. James Hope)

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given in reply to a question by the hon. and gallant Member for Barkston Ash (Major Lane-Fox) on the 11th March, and the statement made by the Leader of the House on the 2nd July. The question of the removal of the restrictions from clubs is a matter for Parliament to deal with when the promised Bill is under discussion, and cannot be dealt with before.