Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTTasked the Secretary for Scotland whether he has received a copy of a resolution, unanimously passed by the executive council of the West of Scotland Retail Drapers' 1644W Association, representing that the hour of eight o'clock fixed by the Shop Closing Order was already, by almost universal practice, the closing hour in all the large centres throughout Scotland, and urging that, in view of the increasing shortage of assistants and the stringency of the lighting regulations, it is desirable in the interests of employers and employés alike that seven o'clock should be fixed as the closing hour in Scotland throughout the week and nine o'clock on Saturdays; whether he is aware that many shopkeepers are now closing voluntarily at seven o'clock; and whether he will take steps to ascertain the views of retail traders in Scotland, with a view to considering whether any variations ought to be made in the Closing Order in Scotland as-compared with England?
§ Mr. TENNANTI have received the resolution referred to, and also other communications expressing a contrary view. I am making inquiries as to how far the association mentioned may be taken as representing the opinion of the retail drapers within its area.