§ 50. Dr. D. Johnsonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that small quantities, of less than a full bottle, of spirits are unobtainable at his State Management Scheme off-licences in the city of Carlisle, thus inflicting hardship on old-age pensioners and other people of limited means; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DeedesI would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given to his Question of 9th February.
§ Dr. JohnsonMay I thank my right hon. and gallant Friend for the full answer he gave last week, which removed the misunderstandings that had appeared on this subject; will my hon. Friend ensure that these small bottles of spirits will be obtainable at his public houses at all times; and, in view of the enthusiasm for small, independent private enterprises that has been shown in recent days on both sides of the House, will he transfer a number of these off-licences into private hands to allow competition?
§ Mr. DeedesThe first point raised by my hon. Friend was fully covered in the reply given by my right hon. and gallant Friend.