HC Deb 01 December 1920 vol 135 cc1243-5
63. Mr. WADDINGTON

asked the Prime Minister if the Liquor Control (Temporary Provisions) Bill is to be withdrawn; if so, will he take immediate steps to have the whole of the regulations annulled which have been made by the Central Control Board (Liquor Traffic); is he aware that the general opinion of the country, including those interested in the trade and the management of clubs, is in favour of a reduction of hours of sale from the pre-War period; will he consult representatives of the trade and of clubs to obtain their views as to the limitation of the hours of sale; and is he aware that a Bill with this object only is likely to secure general acceptance

51. Captain TERRELL

asked the Prime Minister whether he can now make any statement as to the Government intentions with respect to the Liquor Control (Temporary Provisions) Bill?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I shall answer these questions together. The Government had introduced the Temporary Provisions Bill in the hope that it would be non-controversial and give a longer time in which to deal with the whole question by legislation. It is now evident that there would be a certain measure of controversy in connection with the Bill, and as it is essential that this Session should not be unduly prolonged the Government do not propose to proceed with it, and will prepare a comprehensive Bill as soon as possible.

Mr. BOTTOMLEY

In view of the fact that these liquor restrictions were in express terms enacted to promote the production of munitions and the transport of arms, and in view of the fact that these necessities no longer exist, why on earth not put an end to the whole thing at once?

Mr. BONAR LAW

That is a Very clear question, but it is not a new question. It was stated, for example, in the manifesto of the Prime Minister at the time of the Election that we intend, if possible, to get some advantage from experience in these matters during the War. There is no desire on the part of any one to return to exactly pre-War conditions. The problem is a very difficult one, and I am sorry we have not been able to deal with it, but we will do so as soon as possible.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

As the right hon. Gentleman knows the House rose last night at seven o'clock owing to there being no business, cannot some of these matters be brought on?

Mr. BONAR LAW

It is not merely a question of coming to the House and listening. It is a very difficult problem which will require great care on the part of the Government and a great amount of consultation with the different classes in the country concerned.

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Has the Government caused inquiry to be made as to the result in the country of the War restrictions, and particularly of the Carlisle experiment? If so, will the result be communicated to the House?

Mr. BONAR LAW

There is a good deal of information, but I doubt whether it would be of advantage to put it before the House now. The House, I am convinced, realises that it is not a simple problem, but one that must be adequately dealt with.