HC Deb 20 March 1919 vol 113 c2213
28. Captain REGINALD TERRELL

asked the Home Secretary when he proposes to take into consideration an extension of the hours within which tobacco, cigarettes, and cigars can be sold to the public; and whether has attention has been called to the similar modification of the law in respect to the sale of alcohol?

Mr. SHORTT

I see no reason at present to consider any extension for this trade of the hours fixed by the general Early Closing Order for shops. No request to do so has reached me from any quarter. On the contrary, representations have been recently received at the Home Office from tobacconists'associations in London, Manchester, and Torquay in favour of the present restrictions being made permanent.

Lieutenant-Colonel C. LOWTHER

Is not this grandmotherly legislation becoming intolerable, and has not the working man the right to buy tobacco whenever he likes?

Mr. SHORTT

The tobacconists have some rights in the matter too.

Captain TERRELL

Has the public any rights at all?