§ 26. Mr. Hannanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will introduce legislation to amend the licensing laws making it illegal for grocers, or any other person, to sell or deliver alcoholic liquor in bottles to young persons under the age of 18.
§ Mr. Henderson StewartMy right hon. Friend has no evidence at present of any general need for such legislation.
§ Mr. HannanWill the hon. Gentleman convey to his right hon. Friend the information that there is great suspicion in Scotland that children under the age of 14 can be supplied with alcohol in sealed bottles by licensed grocers, and that such alcohol is used by teen-agers and this creates an abuse of the licensing laws? Is he aware that the number of teen-agers arrested for being drunk and incapable increased during 1950, 1951 and 1952, and that it was only as a result of an appeal to the trade by the police authorities in Glasgow that some action was taken by showing notices?
§ Mr. StewartYes, we know about the facts. Action is taken where it can be. However, we have no evidence—that is the point—of the need for a change of this nature.