§ 46. Mr. Dayasked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the present position of clubs in the United Kingdom, he will consider introducing legislation for the purpose of restoring their pre-war privileges?
§ Sir S. HoareNo, Sir. I am not disposed to entertain this suggestion.
§ Mr. DayCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether he makes a regular report 1384 to the Cabinet on this subject; and, if so, when the last report was made?
§ Sir S. HoareNo, Sir; it would certainly be improper for me to say what I do or do not do in the case of the Cabinet.
§ Mr. DayDid not the right hon. Gentleman's predecessor in office state that written reports were made to the Cabinet?
§ Mr. E. SmithWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that workmen's clubs are well conducted, and that they do not desire any change?
§ 48. Major Procterasked the Home Secretary whether he intends to deal with the control of bottle parties in connection with the legislation shortly to be introduced referring, in particular, to bogus clubs; and, if not, whether he will consider the desirability of consulting with the customs and excise authorities, with a view to ascertaining whether the problem of the bottle party can be dealt with by an alteration of the law which will result in the organisers of these parties making the same contribution towards the excise as is made by hotels, restaurants, and other licensed premises which provide alcoholic refreshment and entertainment?
§ Sir S. HoareMy hon. and gallant Friend's suggestion has been noted, but I am not in a position at present to make any statement.
§ Major ProcterIs not the position a very bad one when, while other licensees have to pay very heavy contributions to the Exchequer, these institutions get off scot free?
Captain A. Evans:Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind the large amount of revenue that is lost to the Treasury from this cause in the present state of legislation; and will not the Chancellor of the Exchequer see whether it is possible to include a Clause to deal with it in the Finance Bill which is at present before the House?
§ Sir S. HoareThe second supplementary question shows that the first supplementary question should be addressed to the Chancellor of the Exchequer.
§ Mr. ThorneWill the Home Secretary say what is really meant by bottle parties?