HC Deb 23 March 1937 vol 321 cc2752-3
64. Mr. Viant

asked the Home Secretary whether he has received or will call for any report from the Metropolitan police authority regarding the extension of drinking hours and the added pressure placed upon the police during the late evening hours at the time of the Jubilee celebrations in 1935; and whether the policy the Metropolitan authority intends to adopt concerning extra drinking hours during the Coronation period will be influenced by the experience gained at the time of the Jubilee?

Sir J. Simon

As stated in the report of the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis for 1935, there was no appreciable increase in drunkenness which can be attributed to the additional facilities afforded in connected with the Jubilee celebrations in 1935. The answer to the second part of the question is in the affirmative.

Mr. Gallacher

Will the Home Office not consider closing all public houses during the Coronation?

65. Mr. Hopkin

asked the Home Secretary in what proportion of the whole country have the magistrates granted later permitted hours for the sale of liquor in areas with special requirements as provided for under the Acts of 1921 and 1934; and whether he will circularise the magistrates to urge that, in view of the extended application of this legislation, little, if any, further exceptional treatment can be justified?

Sir J. Simon

In 1936 the normal latest night hour was extended to 10.30 p.m. for the whole or part of the year in just over 50 per cent. of the licensing districts in England and Wales, excluding the Metropolis. As regards the second part of the question, the grant or refusal of extensions of hours is a matter which lies entirely within the discretion of the Magistrates, and I have no authority to intervene.