§ Mr. Neaveasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has any proposals for a review of the law on liquor licensing and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MaudlingI have long thought that the law on liquor licensing in England and Wales was archaic and in need of a thorough overhaul to meet modern conditions. There appears to be growing support for the view that the time is ripe for changes. However, while there is support for reform there are widely differing views as to the form this should take. In view of this and of the desirability in a matter of such public interest of ensuring that all concerned have been able to make their views known before new legislation is introduced, I have decided to appoint an independent committee of inquiry with the following terms of reference
To review the liquor licensing laws of England and Wales, taking account of the changes recommended by the Monopolies Commission and of any other changes that may be proposed, and to make recommendations.I am glad to say that the right hon. Lord Erroll of Hale has agreed to serve as Chairman of the Committee. I shall announce the other members in due course.
The Committee will need to examine the social implications of the Monopolies Commission's recommendation in their Report on the supply of beer, but it will not be part of its functions to reconsider the Commission's analysis and conclusions on the economic effects of the tied-house system.