HC Deb 14 July 1920 vol 131 cc2379-80
50. Colonel NEWMAN

asked the Prime Minister how many members comprise the Central Control Board (Liquor Traffic); what is their remuneration; what is the total number of their staff; have they a Government building placed at their disposal; and what will the Board cost the taxpayer in the current financial year?

Mr. BONAR LAW

There are twelve members of the Board, and none of them receive any remuneration for their services. Office accommodation is provided by the Office of Works. Including the employâs in Carlisle and other direct control areas, the staff of the Board numbers about 1,250 persons. I am informed that the work of this Board does not involve any permanent charge on the Exchequer.

Colonel NEWMAN

Who pays the 1,200 staff?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The Liquor Control Board pays out of the business, and in the end the business will pay for itself.

Colonel ASHLEY

Who is the Chairman of the Board?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I cannot say without notice.

51. Colonel NEWMAN

asked the Prime Minister whether it has been decided to postpone to another Session the introduction of legislation dealing with the liquor traffic and to continue the authority of the Central Control Board (Liquor Traffic) for another year; is he aware that the Board is not responsible to any State department, is at present without a chairman, and contains members who are known advocates of prohibition and members themselves engaged in the brewing industry, and that in consequence the decisions and regulations do not command public confidence; will the present Board be replaced by one consisting of public men of moderate views unconnected with temperance propaganda work or with the brewing industry; and will some Government department assume responsibility in this House for the Board's actions.

Mr. BONAR LAW

I cannot add anything to previous statements on this subject, except to say that the Government hope to deal with the subject during the present Session.

Colonel NEWMAN

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer the last part of my question as to which Government Department assumes responsibility for the actions of this Board?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I think one Department has charge of the matter, but I do not know.

Mr. G. TERRELL

Are we likely to have a statement as to the policy of the Government on this subject before the recess?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have already said that I see no prospect of that.

Mr. MILLS

I understood that the hours under the Regulations were to be reconsidered.

Mr. BONAR LAW

That has been done, and a change has been made.

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