§ 2. Mr. Shepherdasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that under the existing law persons of dubious character can open clubs; and when he intends to take steps to remove this and other defects in the regulations relating to clubs.
§ Major Lloyd-GeorgeI have no power to make regulations about clubs and I regret that I cannot hold out any early prospect of legislation on this difficult and controversial subject.
§ Mr. ShepherdWhile this subject may be difficult and may contain some element of controversy, surely my right hon. and gallant Friend realises the urgent need to do something about the present situation. Surely there has been enough delayed action already.
§ Major Lloyd-GeorgeThat may be so, but my hon. Friend's description of this matter as one of some controversy is a triumph of understatement. I should have thought that this was one of the most controversial subjects one could possibly get. There are also difficulties. One of them is that it is hard to devise restrictions which would be effective against bogus clubs without affecting the vast majority of respectable clubs. I can only repeat that it is a very difficult and controversial subject, and I cannot hold out any prospect of early legislation.
§ Mr. Hector HughesIs it not time, in the interests of the good and decent clubs, that the law relating to clubs was amended, simplified and codified, and that the penalties for offences against the law in this regard were increased?
§ Major Lloyd-GeorgeI think most people would agree that this matter ought to be looked at, but it is extremely difficult and very complicated, and I cannot hold out hope of early legislation.
Mr. Glenvil HallDoes that reply mean that we shall get legislation, 535 although it may not be early? Are we to assume that we shall get legislation on the matter during this Parliament?
§ Major Lloyd-GeorgeI should not like to suggest that.