§ >Sir J. BUTCHERasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been 629W called to the fact that the hours for selling intoxicating liquors in clubs and elsewhere which, until recently, were from 6.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m., have been altered, and the hours are now from 6 p.m. to 9.30 p.m., whether he is aware that this alteration does not meet the wishes or convenience of those concerned; and whether, in view of the fact that many men of the working classes, especially those who have allotments, are now, and will be during the summer months, in the open air tall nearly 9 p.m., or later, he can arrange that the hours for selling intoxicating drinks at clubs and similar places shall be from 6.30 p.m. to 10 p.m. or 10.30 p.m.?
§ Mr. SHORTTThis is not a matter in which I have any authority; and I would refer the hon. and learned Baronet to the answer given to the hon. and gallant Member for Ripon on the 10th April, to the effect that the relaxations recently made by the Central Control Board (Liquor Traffic) in the hours fixed by them for the sale of intoxicating liquor go as far as is thought desirable at present. I understand, however, that the questions raised are continuing to receive the consideration of the Board.