§ Mr. WILESasked the Home Secretary whether, in framing the proposed early closing regulations for shopkeepers, he will take into consideration the disadvantage which will be caused to tobacconists if publicans who sell tobacco, cigarettes, and cigars are allowed to open their premises during the hours that shopkeepers are compelled to close?
Mr. SAMUELI would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which was given to-day to the hon. Member for North Salford.
§ Sir DANIEL GODDARDasked the Home Secretary whether, under the proposed early closing regulations for shopkepers, licensed victuallers and barbers will be allowed to sell tobacco, cigars, and cigarettes after the hour at which tobacconists will be compelled to close?
Mr. SAMUELIt will not be permissible under the Order for licensed victuallers, barbers, or any other class of shopkeepers to sell tobacco after the hour at which tobacconists will be required to close.
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§ Sir W. BYLESasked the Home Secretary whether he has evidence that the compulsory closing of shops at seven o'clock will bear with undue severity on retail tobacconists and confectioners, who do the principal part of their trade in the evenings between 6.30 and 8.30, and that the Order will bring about the ruin of many of these small traders, and only contribute to the benefit of the large stores and multiple shops; and whether he will reconsider the Order?
§ Mr. BRACEThe Home Secretary has very carefully considered the representations which have been made to him on behalf of these trades, but it would not be possible to justify an exemption from the general order for non-essential trades such as the sale of tobacco or sweets. I do not think that the fears which have been expressed as to the effect of the Order on these trades will be justified; trade may be expected to adapt itself to the new conditions. I would point out also that the Order is limited to the winter months, when evening shopping would in any case, quite apart from the Order, be greatly diminished by the lighting restrictions?