HC Deb 21 February 1929 vol 225 cc1278-9
13. Sir F. MEYER

asked the Home Secretary whether any local authorities have made orders under Section 3 of the Shops (Hours of Closing) Act, 1928, substituting a later hour for the closing of tobacconists' shops at the request of the tobacconists in the district affected?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Orders under this Section do not come to me for confirmation but I have heard of three cases where such Orders have been made and of others where the question of making such an Order is under consideration.

Sir F. MEYER

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider sending a circular to local authorities to ascertain how far this provision is being put into force, and in order that misleading statements which are being made in the Press and elsewhere as to compulsion being exercised, may be refuted?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I will consider it.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Has the right hon. Gentleman the names of the three areas in which this provision has come into operation?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Yes. Cheshire County Council, parish of Newton-by-Chester, Essex County Council, urban district of Chingford, and the borough of Neath. There may be more, but these are the only three I have.