54. Major JOHN EDWARDSasked 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?
§ 55. Mr. CROOKSasked 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. CHAMBERLAINThe 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. BUTCHERWill the right hon. Gentleman give any reason for telling respectable members of working men's clubs that they must not have a glass of 1076 beer after nine o'clock on Sunday evenings?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe same reason that applies to my hon. and learned Friend and to myself in our clubs.
§ Major WHELERHas 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. THORNEIs 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. THORNEI have had letters from them, from Nonconformists, and all sorts of religious people.