HC Deb 16 December 1948 vol 459 c1360
11. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many bona fide night clubs there are in London.

Mr. Ede

I am not sure what my hon. Friend means by a "bona fide night club." Any registered club in central London (unless its rules provide otherwise) can supply drinks up to 11 p.m., or, if they have the necessary approval of the licensing justices, with meals up to midnight; and an extra half-hour is allowed for consumption of liquor with a meal. Applications may be made for the extension of these hours for special occasions.

Mr. Hughes

Is the Minister aware that hon. Members have received a circular from the Association of Night Club Proprietors, and would these clubs come under the heading of bona fide organisations?

Mr. Ede

The hon. Gentleman must investigate each case on its own merits. I can give him no guidance on the matter.

Mr. Erroll

Will not the Minister reassure the House that the night clubs referred to, are operating within the law as it stands at present, and are therefore, to that extent, bona fide establishments?

Mr. Ede

No, I cannot. I have never investigated these places myself, and my answer must not be taken as giving either a good or bad character to them.

Mr. Ronald Chamberlain

Will not the Home Secretary himself pay a visit and take an expert with him?