§ 51. Lieut.-Colonel Sir SAMUEL HOAREasked the Prime Minister what decision has been arrived at with reference to liquor control and the withdrawal of war time liquor Regulations?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI cannot add anything to what I have said in reply to similar questions on this subject.
§ Sir S. HOARENow that Peace has been ratified, could not the right hon. Gentleman say when he can make a statement on a subject which is really causing. great deal of criticism and anxiety?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI quite realise that. The Government, I think, have gone some way to remove the dissatisfaction with regard to beer. It is a very difficult question. A Bill is being drafted, and I hope a decision will be arrived at shortly.
§ Sir S. HOAREWill the Bill be introduced before the rising of the House for the holidays?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI hope so.
§ Mr. RAFFANIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that since the Regulations have been relaxed the convictions for drunkenness have steadily gone up; and, in any decision that is arrived at, will he keep in view the desirability of maintaining national sobriety?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWYes; the Government would like to maintain national sobriety, but I do not think we can do it precisely in the method my hon. Friend has in view.
§ Mr. BONAR LAWYes.