§ MR. KILBRIDE (Kildare, S.)I beg to ask Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the fact that English spirit simply reduced, coloured, bottled, and labelled is every week being made up and sent out by itself, as Irish or Scotch whisky, according to the needs of the customer; that this takes place in the bonded warehouses in this country with the cognisance of the Excise officials, who are cautioned not to interfere; and that such so-called Scotch whisky is obtained from such materials as molasses, glucose, rice, and sugar, he will give instructions that such alcoholic drinks shall be properly described.
§ MR. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAINThe matter referred to is not one which can be adequately dealt with within the limits of an answer to a Question, but I may say that the objects desired by the hon. Member could not be obtained by the issue of instructions by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.
§ MR. KILBRIDEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Question is
† See page 580.1327 based on a letter in the Press signed by an Inland Revenue official?
§ MR. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAINI have not seen the letter. An Inland Revenue officer has no right to communicate with the Press in regard to his official duties.