§ MR. WATT (Glasgow, Camlachie)I beg to ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware if it is a fact that the lowest estimate of production (by a manufacturer) of the 300 to 400 aerated water manufacturers in London is 20,000,000 dozens per annum, and that the total amount consumed or exported of aerated waters, untaxed temperance or other drinks or mineral waters, amounts to probably 250,000,000 dozen per annum; and whether, having regard to the fact that the profits upon a 1756 majority of these are stated to be in excess of those derived from any beverage sold by clubs, hotels, restaurants, public houses, &c, he will consider the advisability of causing these waters, being luxuries, to contribute something towards Imperial taxation?
§ *MR. GOSCHENI might say that I would consider the advisability of proposing such a tax, as one might say that all such proposals may be considered, but I should create a false impression, as I do not think I could possibly see my way to taxing aerated waters.