HC Deb 29 April 1948 vol 450 cc597-8
41. Mr. Vane

asked the Secretary of State for he Home Department whether there is any consumers' advisory committee appointed in connection with the Carlisle State Management Schemes; who are the members; and how often do they meet.

Mr. Ede

As required by Section 16 (3) of the Licensing Act, 1921, local advisory committees have been established in each of the State Management Districts from the inception of the schemes. The members are appointed in the Carlisle District in England by the Home Secretary and in the Scottish Districts of Gretna and Cromarty Firth by the Secretary of State for Scotland. The membership is representative of the licensing justices, the municipal and county authorities and other local interests. The committees meet at quarterly intervals, or more frequently if occasion for consultation arises.

Mr. Nally

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the urgent need for the appointment of consumers' advisory committees in relation to the private brewing industry, and if he makes such appointments, will he consider my acknowledged gifts in this direction to advise him upon it?

Mr. Ede

I should, of course, desire to know in regard to any applicant what his practical qualifications were.

Mr. Maclay

Could the Home Secretary state where the local committees meet and where their offices are?

Mr. Ede

Not without notice

Mr. Vane

Will the right hon. Gentleman publish the names of these advisory committees in the OFFICIAL REPORT?

Mr. Ede

I will consider whether the number of names would not be more than would justify publication. I will have a look at it.

Mr. Orr-Ewing

Are their names and addresses or the address of the office of the committee known to consumers in the area?

Mr. Ede

I should imagine so. They generally find enough work to do at their quarterly meetings.

Mr. Orr-Ewing

Will the Home Secretary inquire if that is so?