§ Mr. YOUNGERasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that quantities of so-called Hamburg sherry and port, containing 30 per cent, of proof spirit, are being sold in this country since the increase in the Spirit Duties; that they only pay an Import Duty of 1s. 3d. per gallon, and whether lie will take steps to level up that duty to the rate upon which spirits are charged?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEHamburg sherry and port are not specifically distinguished in the trade accounts, but are included with all other wines imported from Germany. The available figures for the three months since the increase of the Spirit Duties, when compared with the corresponding months of last year, indicate a falling off rather than an increase in the importation of German wines generally. In regard to the last part of the question, I must refer the hon. Member to the reply on this subject given by my right hon. Friend to the hon. Member for Great Yarmouth on the 6th May last.
§ Mr. YOUNGERIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the so-called Hamburg sherry is largely mixed with whisky and sold as whisky, and that it is a profitable thing to do?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEAs far as my researches go neither of those facts is as stated by the hon. Gentleman.
§ Mr. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAINHave the Treasury inquired into the allegation that this Hamburg sherry and port is now being distilled to extract the spirit, that being the cheapest way of obtaining spirits since the increase of the duty?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSENo; I have had no such information, but I will inquire and ascertain if it is true.
§ Mr. WATTIs it the case that this Hamburg spirit is admitted at a tax of 1s. 3d. a gallon, whereas Scotch whisky is taxed higher?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEThis is Hamburg sherry and port. There has been a great decrease in the importation of German spirit in the course of the last five or six years.