§ 42. Mr. ALAN HERBERTasked the Home Secretary whether he can state approximately what is the number of bogus or undesirable clubs on the register; what is the estimated number of persons who will be compelled by the suppression of these clubs to seek their refreshment elsewhere; and whether, to avoid overcrowding and discomfort on licensed premises, he will advise the licensing authorities that through the declared policy of His Majesty's Government more extensive accommodation will be required next year, and that the process of reducing licences should therefore be retarded?
§ Sir J. SIMONI have no information which would enable me to answer the first two parts of the question. As regards the third part, I have no doubt that licensing authorities are aware of the intentions of the Government, as announced last week, in relation to bogus clubs, and will be able to form their own judgment on the aspect of this matter to which the hon. Member refers. I have no authority to issue any such advice as suggested.
Viscountess ASTORIn view of the fact that drunkenness has increased by 24 per cent. since 1932, will the Minister take steps to see that magistrates' certificates are not accepted without very careful inquiries?
§ Mr. HERBERTIs there any reason to suppose that the survivors of bogus prohibition have anything to teach this country in this matter?