§ 35. Mr. McGovernasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the total number of convictions and total amount in fines against Frank Persechine, restaurant proprietor, Union Street, Glasgow, for breaking Glasgow police by-laws by remaining open after hours on Sunday evenings; and will he consider the advisability of urging Glasgow magistrates to extend the hours of restaurants both on weekdays and Sundays in order to meet the needs of the community?
§ Mr. ElliotI am informed that 54 convictions have been recorded against the restaurant proprietor referred to for keeping his premises open on Sundays beyond the hours permitted under the by-laws made by the corporation, and that the fines imposed amount to £104. Any question of amending the by-laws is one in the first instance for the local authority, who are in the best position to judge local needs.
§ Mr. McGovernAs there is a necessity and a desire for the extension of these hours beyond 8 o'clock on Sunday, has the right hon. Gentleman no power to urge that, or even as a representative of the city could he not assist in urging that facilities should be granted to citizens and travellers instead of having them standing at these open-air stalls?
§ Mr. ElliotI have to confirm the bylaw when it is made, and I am afraid I would put myself in an anomalous position if I were also to submit requests as to the making of by-laws.
§ Mr. MacleanIn view of the fact that the police enforce the closing of restaurants so early on Sunday evening in Glasgow, under a by-law which was passed a long time ago, does the right hon. Gentleman not consider that, on account of the International Exhibition which is being held next year, he ought to revise these by-laws in order that visitors may be able to get meals after these hours on Sunday without restaurant proprietors being fined in this manner?
§ Mr. ElliotI think that is a fit point for the local authority to consider, and I 1842 have no doubt it will be taken into consideration.