asked the Home Secretary whether he can indicate the number of bottle parties now existing in the Metropolitan area?

On 31st March, 1940, the number of known bottle parties in the Metropolitan Police District was 27.

In view of that rather large number, does the right hon. Gentleman intend taking any action?

:I may say that there has been no recent increase in the number of these bottle parties, and in any event, I am at the present time considering very carefully with my advisers whether any special strengthening of the law is necessary.

Has the right hon. Gentleman read the report of the disgraceful case which was before the courts yesterday in connection with this matter?

I have not yet received any special report on that case. Doubtless it will come before me in due course.