§ 20. Mr. K. Robinsonasked the President of the Board of Trade why he advised the British Travel and Holidays Association to reject a motion condemning the colour-bar in British hotels.
§ 2. Mr. M. Stewartasked the President of the Board of Trade why he advised the annual meeting of the British Travel and Holidays Association to reject a 548 resolution aimed at discouraging racial discrimination in hotels.
§ Sir D. EcclesHer Majesty's Government strongly deplore the practice of any form of racial discrimination, but this does not seem to be a matter in which hotels should be disciplined in the manner suggested. An hotel keeper has certain obligations under common law to receive guests, and it is for the courts to decide whether he fulfils them.
§ Mr. RobinsonCan the right hon. Gentleman explain why he took what the Daily Telegraph describes as the unusual course of offering advice, which, apparently, has not been sought? Is he aware that the effect of his speech on that occasion was to nullify the much more liberal views he expressed in this House, which, I am glad to say, he has reiterated today, in answer to a supplementary question of mine on 31st July?
§ Sir D. EcclesI am sorry if that was the effect, but I was asked for my advice and I gave it.