§ 34. Mr. Padleyasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he expects to introduce legislation to amend the Shops Act.
§ Mr. EdeI regret that I am not at present in a position to say when it will be practicable to introduce such legislation.
§ Mr. PadleyIs my right hon. Friend aware that it is now nearly four years since the Gower's Committee reported on desirable amendments to this legislation? Is he further aware that much of the legislation relating to shops dates back to the time when the right hon. Member for Woodford (Mr. Churchill) was Home Secretary? Would my right hon. Friend therefore consider this as an urgent matter?
§ Mr. EdeI do not quite understand the last part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question, but, as he knows, I have had discussions with the interests concerned. A Measure has been brought forward for the consolidation of the law, which will help us, and I hope that it may be possible to deal with this matter.