§ Mr. Glenvil Hallasked the President of the Board of Trade why the sale of tobacco and cigarettes is forbidden at the Merchant Navy Club, Rupert Street, London; and whether he will take immediate steps to secure a tobacco and cigarette sales licence for the club so that merchant seamen on shore leave may enjoy a normal amenity?
§ Captain WaterhouseA licence under the Location of Retail Businesses Order to sell tobacco and cigarettes was refused because there are already ample outlets for the sale of these goods in Central London. My right hon. Friend is not prepared to make an exception in this case to the general policy of refusing licences unless it is clear that consumers would otherwise be unable to obtain supplies.