§ Mr. REESasked whether the last reported revenue from the sale of intoxicating liquors and drugs in the Madras Presidency was £1,699,830; and, if so, why, since the population is only slightly less than that of the United Kingdom, and is judged by the returns one of the most temperate in the world, the Madras Government has been urged to adopt measures to check further increase of the consumption of alcoholic liquor?
The MASTER of ELIBANKThe figure given by the hon. Member is correct according to the revised estimate of 1908–9. 209 It shows an increase of 24 per cent, on the revenue derived in 1906–7 from intoxicating liquors and drugs. The Madras Government considers that the consumption of spirits and drugs has increased among certain classes of the population to a regrettable extent, and that further restrictive measures are necessary. It is not acting under external pressure, but on its own judgment and initiative. The hon. Member can hardly suggest that the fact of the Madras population being one of the most temperate in the world is a good reason for allowing it to become less temperate.
§ Mr. REESIs it not the fact that on the motion of an hon. Member of this House the Government urged the Madras Government to take steps as if they were dealing with a drunken population?
§ Mr. C. J. O'DONNELLDo not the Returns of the Excise revenue in India show a three-fold increase in the last 30 years?