HC Deb 13 July 1920 vol 131 c2154
55. Viscount CURZON

asked the Lord Privy Seal why it is intended to continue to prohibit the sale of chocolates in theatres and under what Regulation; and whether some compromise more satisfactory to the public could be arrived at?

Sir J. BAIRD

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. In the absence of further legislation, the restriction referred to would be continued as part of the existing General Early Closing Order under No. 10B of the Defence of the Realm Regulations, so long as that Order remains in force. A proposal to relax this restriction was rejected on the 20th April by the Standing Committee on the Shops (Early Closing) Bill, and I would refer my noble Friend to the Report of the Committee's proceedings. In view of that decision, my right hon. Friend would not feel justified in proposing any alteration. I should be very glad if a satisfactory compromise could be reached, but the endeavours made for this purpose have been without success.

Viscount CURZON

If a compromise is arrived at, will the Government give fair consideration to the relaxation of this regulation?

Sir J. BAIRD

As I have just said, we have not yet succeeded in arriving at a compromise.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Will the Government consider the public interest instead of solely the vested interests concerned?

Commander BELLAIRS

If the matter is going to be dealt with in the Shops Bill, will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind the vote of the Committee in favour of restricting the sale of chocolates in theatres as in the shops?

Sir J. BAIRD

I think I have covered that in my answer.