HC Deb 26 July 1927 vol 209 cc1023-4
55. Viscountess ASTOR

asked the Home Secretary whether seeing that he received deputations from various bodies and institutions on the question of legislation affecting the sale of drink in clubs in November, 1925, that subsequently, in reply to a Parliamentary question, he stated that the Government would appoint a Committee to inquire into the regulations governing the sale of drink in club after the Southborough Committee had reported, and that the Southborough Committee reported on 12th May, 1927, he can now state the personnel and terms of reference of the new committee of inquiry?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

In the reply to which the Noble Lady refers I said if it be necessary after consideration of the Report of Lord Southborough's Committee, the Government will direct a full inquiry into the whole of the questions raised before me by the various deputations. The Government have not yet been able to give to this matter the consideration required before a decision can be announced as to the next step.

Viscountess ASTOR

As the Government are so long in making up their mind, does it not look as though they meant to nothing and were simply wasting time?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

My Noble Friend must not jump at any such rash conclusion. The fact that the Government have taken some time to make up their mind shows how very careful they are in dealing with any question in which the Noble Lady is interested.

Mr. THURTLE

In view of the great social value of these clubs to working men, will the right hon. Gentleman undertake not to take any precipitate action in this matter?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

If the hon. Member will make his peace with my Noble Friend the Member for the Sutton Division (Viscountess Astor), I shall be delighted.

Mr. CRAWFURD

Is it proposed to publish the evidence given before the Southborough Committee,

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

No, Sir.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Is it not the case that this Committee's Report is of no value to anyone?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

It does not give that leading to the Government for which I had hoped.