The House of Commons a Shebeen.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 8778, 13 March 1897, Page 2

The House of Commons a Shebeen.

On January 21st Sir iV. Lawson asked the Attorney-General whether he has made inquiry into the conditions under which the sale of liquor is carried on within the precincts of the House, and is able to state to the House the results of his inquiry. The Attorney-General replied : In accordance with a promise I gave the hon. baronet last session, I have carefully looked into the matter, and have taken the best advice on the subject. I have come to the conclusion that the sale of intoxicating liquor as at present carried out in the precincts of the House is not in accordance with the law. (Loud laughter.) I am, however, clearly of opinion that the provisions of the Licensing Acts could not be applied, and are wholly unsuitable to the circumstances of the case. I am in communication with my right honourable friends the Home , Secretary and the Chancellor of the Exchequer as to what steps had best be taken. (Renewed laughter ) My present opinion is that a short Act should be passed—(great laugh ter)— exempting the House of Parliament from the operations of Licensing and Excise Laws. Mr Logan : Will the Government find time this session to pass the Act. Mr Bayley: Pending the passing of that Act are we to be allowed to have liquor served ?

No answer was given. It is stated that there is one bar in the House where strangers are served, and there was some talk in the lobbies that a member with views upon the subject would apply for a summons in order to test how the whole question really stands.