§ 15. Brigadier Medlicottasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will, during the present Session of Parliament, introduce legislation to regulate the opening of licensed clubs, and for the more adequate control of such clubs.
§ Major Lloyd-GeorgeI regret that I can hold out no prospect of a Government Bill on this subject this Session.
§ Brigadier MedlicottIs the Minister aware that there is a serious gap in the law on this subject since the withdrawal of the appropriate Defence Regulation, and will he assure the House that the matter is actively under consideration, and that the need for legislation is at least recognised?
§ Major Lloyd-GeorgeAs I pointed out in my answer, there is little prospect of legislation in this present Session, and my hon. and gallant Friend will know why.
§ Mrs. BraddockIs the Minister aware that there is very great need for reconsideration of this matter, and that, as the law stands, it requires the addition of only a few words to the present provision? Is he further aware that in Liverpool we are experiencing very great difficulty in dealing with premises that are unlicensed but which are selling intoxicating liquors, and that practically all the time of the police force in the central area is spent dealing with this problem? Could not the law be added to in order to give the authorities the powers that are necessary to deal with the problem?
§ Major Lloyd-GeorgeI am aware of the difficulties to which the hon. Lady has referred, but the difficulty is to find Parliamentary time.