HC Deb 03 December 1925 vol 188 cc2488-9
26. Mr. R. YOUNG

asked the Home Secretary how many clubs have been raided by the police during the past three years; in how many cases convictions have been secured; how many permanently closed; and the aggregate amount of the fines imposed; whether their stocks of spirits, etc., were sequestrated; and, if so, in what way are such stocks disposed of and to what account are the proceeds of sale placed?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I assume the hon. Member's question refers to clubs in the Metropolitan Police District. On this assumption, I have obtained the information for which he asks, but as a full reply would be long and contain a number of figures, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

When the right hon. Gentleman circulates these figures will he distinguish between what are generally known as night clubs, and other clubs?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Yes, if the hon. Gentleman who put the question consents I will endeavour to do that.

Mr. YOUNG

initiated assent.

Following is the reply promised:

The following are the particulars as to proceedings against Clubs in the Metropolitan Police District between 1st December, 1922, and 30th November, 1925.

(1) Number of clubs entered by virtue of a Search Warrant
(a)Registered 107
(b)Unregistered 8
(2) Number of clubs in relation to which convictions have been obtained 107
In addition, proceedings are pending against 5 of the clubs shown in (1).
(3) Number of cases in which the premises were temporarily disqualified 69
(4) Total amount of (a) fines and (b) costs imposed upon the persons responsible for management and control.

There is no power to close a club permanently. The Act provides for the die-qualification of club premises for a limited period only.

Stocks of liquor were sequestered in seven of the above cases. In four, the liquor, which was of trifling amount, was destroyed. In one case a decision is now pending regarding the disposal of the property. In the remaining two cases considerable amounts were seized and sold by auction, the proceeds being credited to that portion of the Police Fund Account devoted to Police Court expenses.