§ Mr. JOHNSTONasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the number of special licensing permits granted in the Metropolitan Police area; whether he is aware that some establishments are almost regularly in receipt of special permits extending the licensing hours; and whether he will consider the advisability of making regulations which will bring the issue of these permits within the official cognisance of the licensing justices?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThe answer to the first two paragraphs of the question is in the affirmative. It is a difficult matter to which I pay constant attention. As regards the third part of the question, I have no power to make regulations in this matter. If a change in the powers is to come about it will need legislation.