Mr. Whiteasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the increase in the number of bottle-shop licences issued by the Excise; and whether he contemplates taking any action in the matter?
§ Sir J. AndersonThe figures for the three years, 1938, 1939 and 1940 are 1,920, 1,964 and 1,925. The provision by which wholesale dealers are entitled subject to certain conditions to obtain from the Customs and Excise Department retail off-licences is one of those noted for consideration when any amendment of the licensing law can be undertaken, but it is not a matter which can be taken up at the present time.