§ 17. Mr. Toucheasked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the long delay which has transpired since the Government have expressed their intention of introducing legislation to deal with bogus clubs, he is now in a position to make a further statement on the subject?
§ Sir S. HoareThe Government had hoped to introduce a Bill to deal with this subject during the present Session of Parliament, but the claims of foreign policy and National Defence on Parliamentary time has been such that there is now little prospect of finding the necessary time, especially as it seems clear that the difficulties of reaching any measure of agreement on the subject are great. Despite these difficulties, the Government are, however, convinced that some amendment of the law is required which, without prejudicing the interests of reputable clubs, will deal with undesirable resorts which misuse the liberty allowed to genuine clubs, and they intend to introduce a Measure on these lines as soon as it is practicable.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsWill consultations take place with the Club and Institute Union before the Government Measure is introduced?
§ Sir S. HoareYes, Sir; we shall certainly hope to have consultations of this kind and try to obtain a basis of general agreement.