HC Deb 07 June 1932 vol 266 cc1765-6
25. Mr. McGOVERN

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is prepared to introduce legislation limiting the hours of drinking clubs in Scotland to the same as other licensed premises, and providing for police inspection of the same, as recommended by the chief of police in Glasgow in his annual report?

Sir A. SINCLAIR

The recommendations referred to will be kept in view in connection with the recommendations of the Royal Commission on Licensing in Scotland. I would remind the hon. Member that the number of hours during which exciseable liquor may be sold or supplied in clubs on weekdays is the same as in the case of licensed premises, namely, eight hours. In regard to police inspection, the recommendation of the Royal Commission for Scotland was of a more limited character than the proposals of the chief constable. I am not in a position to make any pronouncement as to legislation.

Mr. McGOVERN

Can the right hon. Gentleman give any indication of an early desire on the part of his Department to give the police facilities for inspecting these clubs as desired by the chief constable?

Sir A. SINCLAIR

As to the possibility of introducing legislation on this question, I can only say that it is quite impossible at the moment, and I cannot make any announcement now.

Mr. C. WILLIAMS

Have not the police of Glasgow plenty to do without interfering in this matter?