§ 55. Mr. PIKEasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the Sheffield licensing magistrates refuse to schedule for compensation or allow removal of licences to other areas of licensed houses included in slum clearance areas; and whether, in view of the losses thus entailed, he will urge upon local authorities that in the new residential areas where slum dwellers are being re-housed provision for the sale or lease of land upon which licensed houses can be erected should be made?
§ The MINISTER of HEALTH (Sir Hilton Young)My attention has not previously been drawn to the matters mentioned in the first part of the question. They do not appear to be matters in respect of which I have any jurisdiction. As regards the second part, I am not at present aware of facts justifying any interference by me in the use of the discretion vested in the local authorities.
§ Mr. PIKEWill the right hon. Gentleman ascertain the accuracy of the facts stated in the question; does he realise that the industry concerned consider that they are not receiving common justice at the hands of the local licensing magistrates and that Parliament ought to help in this matter; and will he pay due consideration to that position?
§ Sir H. YOUNGI shall be very happy to confer with the hon. Member, but he 1963 will of course realise that the discretion of the licensing justices is not a matter over which I have any power or authority.