83. Mr. W. A. JENKINSasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will consider the advisability of introducing legislation to amend the 1039 present Act by giving magistrates the power to place inebriates upon the black list without their own consent?
The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Bridge-man)I regret that I cannot undertake to introduce legislation on this matter.
Mr. JENKINSIn view of the fact that a large number of our fellow beings, men and women, are confirmed inebriates, will the Home Secretary not reconsider this matter and give the magistrates authority to blacklist these people, and so try to arrest them in their downward rush to destruction; and also minimise the tragedy to themselves and their families and friends? Might I have an answer to my question?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Gentleman cannot get it if he remain standing.
§ Mr. SCRYMGEOURCan the Home Secretary not do something to stop the production of the inebriate?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANIt is a very difficult question, and it has been most carefully considered; but I do not see any chance of introducing the legislation which the hon. Gentleman desires.