§ 46. Mr. SEDDONasked the Prime Minister whether Sir Edgar Saunders has received permission to address meetings in furtherance of the Carlisle experiment; if so, from what source the expense of such propaganda is met; how many officials and staff are engaged or employed in managing or controlling the licensed houses belonging to the Board; and whether they are requested or privileged on personal application to address meetings similar to the one addressed by Sir Edgar Saunders at Birkenhead on 27th January, 1920?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWSir Edgar Saunders attended the Birkenhead meeting referred to in the Question by invitation from the organisers of the meeting and by permission of the Central Control Board. The meeting was not held in furtherance of the Carlisle experiment, and was in no way promoted by the Government or the Central Control Board. The question whether Sir Edgar Saunders or the General Managers of the Board's Enfield Lock and Scottish Direct Control undertakings should receive permission to attend similar meetings would depend on the particular circumstances in each case.
§ Colonel ASHLEYHave public funds been used in any case in connection with these meetings?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI understand not. There was no question of propaganda.