§ 13. Major Sir GRANVILLE WHELERasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that cigarettes and matches cannot be sold in railway buffets after 8 p.m., but yet can be obtained through the penny-in-the-slot machines on railway platforms; and whether he will take steps to remove the restriction on the sale of matches and cigarettes in railway buffets?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affimative—subject to an exception for tobacco supplied at a meal for immediate consumption. As regards the second, the suggestion of my hon. and gallant Friend would involve an amendment of the Shops (Early Closing) Acts, and all I can promise is that it will be noted for consideration when any amending legislation is undertaken.
§ Sir G. WHELERIs it not time these petty restrictions were removed?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI have said it would involve an amendment of the Shops Early Closing Act. There are a good many points which have been put to me from both sides of the House in regard to the Act, and I have said the Government are not prepared to amend the Act without a very full inquiry. We are too busy to do it this year.
captain ARTHUR EVANSWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of appointing a Committee to make recommendations to him?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI think that is the course I shall ultimately adopt.
§ colonel WOODCOCKDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think a number of these conditions quite absurd? You have to get a- meal before you can get an ounce of tobacco.
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThose arc questions of relativity.
§ Mr. MACQUISTENIs it not time all this War legislation was scrapped? Is he not aware that, ostensibly passed to help shop assistants, it really only helps the big store and the multiple shop against the small man?
§ Mr. ALBERYDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think the Government can really take useful action without the necessity for an Inquiry?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI think the Government are not averse from taking action where it is convinced that action is desirable in the interests of the community as a whole. I have not yet had sufficient evidence that there is, on the whole, a demand for the abolition of these restrictions.