HC Deb 05 August 1925 vol 187 cc1358-9
69. Sir A. HOLBROOK

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that an application granted by the local licensing magistrates for a temporary licence for the supply of refreshments on the occasion of an agricultural show at Longtown, in the Carlisle area, was vetoed by the Home Office; and whether he will state the reason for this?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Yes, Sir. I recently refused an application for my consent to supply intoxicating liquor at the weekly cattle auctions at Longtown because, if there is a genuine public demand for such facilities, I thought that the supply ought to be undertaken by the State Management. Pending the result of the inquiry which has been instituted into the State Management Scheme, I cannot interfere with the existing arrangements.

Sir A. HOLBROOK

Are not the local licensing magistrates the licensing authority in the controlled area?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Yes, but the point is that in the controlled area I am responsible for the supply of intoxicating liquor. If there is a demand the State-managed organisation there would apply to the local magistrates to supply the demand which my hon. and gallant Friend has in mind.

Sir A. HOLBROOK

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that within the last few weeks a beer house has been converted into spirit house without any reference to the licensing authority; and does he approve of that?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

My hon. and gallant Friend must give me a little notice. I cannot carry all the details of State management in my mind.