HC Deb 24 June 1971 vol 819 cc1567-8
4. Mr. William Price

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when the first meeting of the Erroll Committee took place; and when he expects to receive its recommendations.

Mr. Maudling

The Committee first met on 5th April. It is too early to say when it will report.

Mr. Price

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is considerable concern about the independence and scope of the Committee in view of the fact that he has already made up his mind and announced that our licensing laws are archaic? If the Committee decides that they are not archaic, does that not leave the right hon. Gentleman in a curious position, half-way up a gum tree looking stupid?

Mr. Maudling

I am prepared to take that risk. I think that the laws are archaic. If the Committee comes up with the view that they are perfect, I and many others will be very surprised.

Mr. Lipton

Is the Erroll Committee paying some attention to the recommendation of the Monopolies Commission that the tied house system should be abolished or considerably amended?

Mr. Maudling

I think there is a reference in the Committee's terms of reference to the views of the Monopolies Commission.