HC Deb 08 August 1940 vol 364 cc409-10
44. R. Gibson

asked the Home Secretary from what bodies of a not definitely temperance foundation he has received representations urging the issue of a no-treating order; which of these are situate in Scotland; and from what individuals in official positions he has received such representations?

Sir J. Anderson

Since the outbreak of war, I have received representations urging the prohibition of treating from 12 local church organisations and one local "vigilance committee." None of these bodies was situated in Scotland, but any such representations received from Scotland would have been transferred at once to the Scottish Home Department. One Noble Lord, one Member of this House, and one licensing justice have sent similar representations.

Sir A. Southby

Will my right hon. Friend see that the men of His Majesty's Forces are treated as common-sensed individuals and not as school children?

Mr. Gibson

Will the right hon. Gentleman keep in mind that both in Edinburgh and outside persons in public bars are made the unwilling recipients of information which would be of great value to the enemy?

Mr. Buchanan

Is the Home Secretary aware that the average soldier can look after himself?

59. Mr. Lipson

asked the Home Secretary how many police officers and medical officers of hospitals, where members of His Majesty's Forces receive treatment, have been asked by him to report on the need for a no-treating order; and how many of these officers recommend the imposition of an order and how many do not?

Sir J. Anderson

All chief officers of police were asked to report any significant increase in drunkenness or excessive drinking in their districts, and special reports have been called for, as the occasion arose, on specific complaints about particular districts, but no chief constable has so far suggested that there is a need for a no-treating order. I have not heard of any complaints of treating of members of His Majesty's Forces while they are hospital patients.

Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

Is it not much too expensive to get drunk in these days?