MR. HERBERT ROBERTSI beg to ask the Secretary of State for India whether his attention has been drawn to the statement in the Excise Report of the Central Provinces to the effect that the revenue from country liquor during the year 1905–6 increased by 17 per cent.; whether he is aware that during the same period the Excise Revenue of the Punjabrose by Rs.413,503, the increased consumption in four districts alone amounting to over 98,000 gallons; and whether the Government of India contemplate taking immediate steps to arrest the spread of drinking habits among the people of these provinces.
§ Mr. MORLEYLarge changes have recently been made in the excise system of the Central Provinces and the increase in Excise Revenue in 1905–06, which is correctly stated by the hon. Member, is believed to be of a temporary character and in large measure due to the unsettlement caused by the changes. These have the object of increasing the control of the Government over the liquor trade, and it is too early yet to judge the results. The increase in the Punjab both in revenue and in recorded liquor consumption, was caused by an attempt to substitute licit for illicit supplies by the sale of cheaper liquor experimentally in certain areas. A Report on the experiment is, I understand, under consideration in India, and when it reaches me, I will lay it on the Table.