§ Sir W. SEAGERasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will favourably consider the position of shopkeepers in regard to the request of proprietors of theatres, music-halls, and cinemas to sell confectionery after the closing hours im- 1082W posed on shopkeepers; is he aware that a great hardship will be inflicted on a most deserving class of shopkeepers, among whom are many ex-Service men and widows, if theatres, etc., are allowed to sell confectionery after they are compelled to close; and does he propose to take any action?
§ Mr. SHORTTMy right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. I am aware both of the difficulty which the present rules cause to theatre managers and of the hardship which its relaxation without proper safeguards might cause to shopkeepers. I have within the last few days invited the views of the retail confectioners' and theatrical managers' associations on certain proposals which will, I believe, meet the reasonable claims of both parties, and I hope that both will cooperate with me in promoting a satisfactory settlement.
§ Mr. GILBERTasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that under Government regulations it is impossible to purchase either cigars, tobacco, or sweets after 8 p.m. in London theatres or music halls; whether he is aware of the number of visitors who use these places of amusement in Central London; and whether, now that peace has been signed some months, he can withdraw what was really issued as a war regulation?
§ Mr. SHORTTI would refer the hon. Member to the answer I have just given on this subject to the lion. Member for East Cardiff.