HC Deb 11 March 1947 vol 434 cc1125-6
45. Mr. Molson

asked the Prime Minister whether he will inform the House of the advice he gave in writing to the Chairman of the Scottish Fuel Efficiency Committee regarding the holding of sporting events in mid week.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

The Scottish Regional Fuel Efficiency Committee were of the opinion that, in order to help the production drive, mid-week sporting events during working hours should not be held; and the chairman wrote to me on the subject. In reply, I informed him that the Government had been examining the effects on production of mid-week sporting events, and outlined the inquiries which the Government were making.

Mr. Molson

Are we to understand that the Prime Minister did, deprecate the holding of mid-week sporting events?

The Prime Minister

I said the matter is under consideration.

Mr. Molson

It still is?

The Prime Minister

Yes, Sir.

Mr. M. Lindsay

Does that apply only to sports for which power is necessary? Does it apply to cricket and games like that?

The Prime Minister

Because there is such a variety of sporting events, this does require very careful consideration.

Lieut.-Commander Gurney Braithwaite

Will the right hon. Gentleman make an announcement before the South African cricket team sails for this country?

The Prime Minister

I regret that I have not that date in my mind.