§ Mr. DONALDasked the Home Secretary if it is the intention of the Government to include Ireland in the Shops (Early Closing) Bill?
§ Major BAIRDThe answer is in the negative. Compulsory early closing of shops on the lines proposed in the Bill ceased to be in force in Ireland early last year, and the Government are not satisfied that there is any general desire in Ireland for its re-introduction on a permanent basis. In any case it would be inopportune, in view of the proposals in the Government of Ireland Bill, to legislate for Ireland in this matter at the present time.