asked the Home Secretary whether he has yet received from the Commissioner of Police a report concerning drunkenness in the darkened streets following on the closing of all places of amusement except the public-houses; and whether, as increased drunkenness in Glasgow is the cause of the closing of public-houses in that city at eight o'clock, he is contemplating any similar step for London.

It has not yet been practicable for the Commissioner to collect statistical information about drunkenness in London during the last ten days, but I am having a careful watch kept on the situation, not only in London but elsewhere. I fully recognise the importance of the point raised by the hon. Member, but such information as I have suggests that it would at present be premature to attempt to form an opinion on the question whether any further restrictions on the hours of licensed premises may be necessary.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in some parts of South London citizens have formed themselves into bands to protect shopkeepers against gangs who have smashed up milk and snack bars and other shops?

I have spoken personally with the Commissioner of Police on the whole question of public order in London, and the impression that he has formed as a result of telephone communication with the various divisions is that there is no evidence of any substantial increase of drunkenness. On the other hand, cases of theft, house-breaking, and so on have shown actually a decrease, which is very satisfactory.

Will the right hon. Gentleman read the "South London Press," and he will see cases such as I have described reported there again and again?

I will ask the Commissioner of Police to make a special inquiry and to give me the result as soon as possible.

Does the right hon. Gentleman not recognise that the fact of so many special police being about is the reason why there are fewer burglaries?

Is not the best way to keep people sober to give them reasonable facilities for entertainment?

That has been done, as I think the hon. Baronet knows.