asked the Home Secretary whether he will state the position regarding the opening and closing of public fair-grounds at the present time.

Fairs are not prohibited by any order under the Defence Regulations. They are subject to the Lighting Order, and any exhibition or entertainment in connection with a fair to which the public are admitted on payment is subject to the restrictions contained in the Public Entertainments Order. I have been anxious not to impose any further restrictions on fairs, but when a fair ground includes a portion of a main highway it may prove desirable—owing to war time traffic conditions—for the fair to be abandoned or transferred to some other site. If this can be done by arrangement between the police and the showmen, I hope that the use of further compulsory powers under the Defence Regulations may be avoided.

May we take it that, so far as shows and circuses are concerned, they are subject to the same rules as cinemas and may be open till 10 p.m.?

That is so, subject to the lighting regulations.

May we take it that the right hon. Gentleman has so far made no order at all regarding these fairs?

That is the case.

Will the right hon. Gentleman make it clear that he has no intention to interfere with old established street markets and that they may be allowed to carry on as usual?

I do not know what the developing situation may require, but there is certainly every desire to avoid interference with fairs, street markets, and established institutions of all kinds.

Will my right hon. Friend not endeavour to grant some facilities to football clubs?