HC Deb 30 January 1951 vol 483 cc710-1
36. Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

asked the Minister of Works in how many places his Department is selling liquor to the public without a justices licence.

Mr. Stokes

None, Sir. The administration of Park Street falls to me personally as Minister in charge of Government hospitality.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether in his official capacity he is selling drink to the public at any place other than No. 2, Park Street?

Mr. Stokes

I can give the hon. Gentleman that assurance.

37. Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

asked the Minister of Works when notice of intention to apply for a justices licence for the sale of liquor at 2, Park Street, was given; and when the application is to be made.

Mr. Stokes

Having regard to the uncertainty on the future use of the premises, no application is being made for a justices licence at the present time.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

What has caused the right hon. Gentleman to change his mind since, on 7th November, he informed one of my hon. Friends that he proposed to use Crown immunity only until he could apply for a licence in February?

Mr. Stokes

I do not differ from what I said then, but the trouble is that the future has become more uncertain.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Among those uncertainties, does the right hon. Gentleman number the possibility that the justices might not give him a licence?

Mr. Stokes

No, Sir.

Mr. Godfrey Nicholson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that he is probably personally liable if there is misconduct at these premises?

43. Mr. Keeling

asked the Minister of Works what proportion of the Prime Ministers and their staffs, respectively, who came to London for the Commonwealth Conference were lodged at 2, Park Street.

Mr. Stokes

In accordance with longstanding practice, these visitors were accommodated in hotels.

Mr. Keeling

Does not the failure to make use of 2, Park Street show a certain lack of confidence in its amenities?

Mr. Stokes

Not at all. We followed the usual procedure with regard to these distinguished visitors. I think it is a pity that they should be drawn into this controversy.