§ 45. Mr. LIDDALLasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the fact that permitted hours of trading in licensed houses have hitherto been from eight to nine on week-days as compared with 17 to 19½ hours in 1909–10 when the existing basis of licence duty was fixed, he will agree to confer with representatives of the tenants of licensed houses with the object of reducing the duty?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI have already agreed to receive representations from various organisations connected with the liquor trade and, judging from previous experience, they are not likely to omit any of the arguments that might be adduced in support of a reduction of duties. It would not, however, be in accordance with my usual practice to make up my mind before receiving such deputations as to the course I should pursue in the Budget.
§ Mr. LIDDALLHas the right hon. Gentleman received a request from the tenant publicans for him to receive a deputation in order that he may fully appreciate their point of view?