HC Deb 21 October 1920 vol 133 cc1075-6
54. Major JOHN EDWARDS

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether an undertaking was given by the Government, privately or otherwise, relating to the restoration of pre-War conditions in clubs; and, if so, what were the exact terms of the Government's promise?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I am not aware of any undertaking such as is suggested in the question.

55. Mr. CROOKS

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether it has been decided to revert to the former hours of opening licensed promises on Sunday evenings; if so, whether he is aware that the alteration from the present hours will give rise to much discontent; and whether the decision will be reconsidered?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

The demand for the extension of the Sunday evening closing hour to 10 p.m. was based on the special conditions of Summer-time, and the Control Board's Order, which was made in response to this demand, automatically lapses with the end of Summertime. On the question of discontent, I think the general feeling is that the process of relaxation of existing Regulations should not be allowed to go further in advance of Parliamentary settlement of the subject, and I understand that the Board have not seen their way to make a new Order for a permanent extension to 10 p.m.

Sir J. BUTCHER

Will the right hon. Gentleman give any reason for telling respectable members of working men's clubs that they must not have a glass of beer after nine o'clock on Sunday evenings?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

The same reason that applies to my hon. and learned Friend and to myself in our clubs.

Major WHELER

Has any information come to hand to show that the extension of an extra hour has been in any way abused by those who have had the benefit of it; and will the right hon. Gentleman make strong representations on the subject?

Mr. W. THORNE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the present opening hours on Sunday are giving universal satisfaction, and that the religious fraternity is in favour of the present hours in preference to the hours from six to nine o'clock?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

No; I cannot say that I am personally aware of it.

Mr. THORNE

I have had letters from them, from Nonconformists, and all sorts of religious people.