MARQUESS Of TULLIBARDINEasked the Secretary for Scotland whether, in view of the fact that the borough by-laws as amended under the Act of 1911 enact in effect that the only place where a teetotaler who is a bonâ fide traveller can get refreshment on Sundays is a public-house, he will so alter these by-laws as to permit bonâ fide temperance hotels to cater for such travellers?
Mr. McKINNON WOODThe statement in the question as to the effect of the Act appears to be due to some misapprehension. All depends on the form of the bylaw that has been proposed by the local authority and confirmed. The Act of 1911 gives power to, but does not compel, the local authority to enact complete Sunday closing. Where by-laws have been confirmed I have no power to alter them, but the local authority can propose amending by-laws if they deem it expedient.