MR. HERBERT ROBERTS (Denbighshire, W.)I beg to ask Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer whether his attention has been drawn the fact that during the period 1900–6 there has been a decrease of 1 41 degrees in the average gravity of beer produced in the United Kingdom; whether this represents approximately a diminution of £340,000 in the yield of revenue derived from this source; and, if so, whether he will consider what action can be taken in order to prevent a further reduction of revenue from this cause.
§ MR. ASQUITHThe facts are as stated. The growing preference on the part of the public for lighter beers is, I think, apart from consideration of revenue, a reason for satisfaction. I am 705 looking into the question whether such beers are, or are not, in proportion to their alcoholic strength, more lightly taxed than beers of higher gravity; but, even if it can be shown that they have an advantage in this respect, I do not at present express any opinion as to whether that is an advantage which ought to be withdrawn.