§ 53. Mr. J. HALLasked the Home Secretary whether any estimate has been made of the approximate cost of the inspectorate which will be necessary to ensure that the provisions of the Shops (Sunday Trading Restriction) Bill are properly carried out; and, if not, whether he will have an investigation made into this matter at the earliest opportunity?
§ Mr. LLOYDThe answer to both parts of the question is in the negative. To obtain such an estimate it would be necessary, I am advised, to ask the numerous local authorities who would be responsible for administration if the Bill passes into law, to go into the question and estimate the cost for their respective areas. No representations, however, on the question of cost have been received either from the local authorities themselves, or from their associations, and in the circumstances my right hon. Friend would not feel justified in asking them to make this inquiry at the present stage.