HC Deb 01 November 1949 vol 469 cc188-9
27. Colonel J. R. H. Hutchison

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he proposes to take to prevent the sale of contraceptives from slot machines in Scotland.

Mr. Woodburn

It is open to any town or county council in Scotland to make by-laws prohibiting the sale of contraceptives from automatic machines in its area, and the Scottish Home Department will assist any local authority which asks for advice about the most suitable form of such by-laws. The by-laws would be subject to my confirmation, and I will be prepared to confirm any which are properly made in suitable form.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Is the Minister aware that very few people in Scotland know of the existence of these machines? Will he give an undertaking not to circularise local authorities in order to advertise them? Is he also aware that very few people knew of these machines until the protest broadcast by the Archbishop of Canterbury? Will he suggest to the Archbishop that he should not advertise them?

Major Guy Lloyd

Is it not a fact that as yet, there are none of these machines in Scotland? Would the right hon. Gentleman confirm that?

Mr. Woodburn

I am sorry I cannot confirm that. My information, although I have not heard of the machines before, is that they have been in existence there for 20 years.