§ Mr. NOLANasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he proposes to levy the additional duty of 3s. 9d. per gallon upon spirits distilled from sugar-cane molasses in the British West Indies; whether the opinions of the respective Governors have been or will be taken as to what the probable effect of the increase would be upon the reviving rum and sugar industries in those islands, more particularly in Jamaica; whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that British capital has been recently devoted in considerable sums to the development of the industrial resources of these Colonies, and with promising results; and whether the interests of the investors and of the inhabitants will be carefully weighed before the question is finally decided.
§ Mr. LLOYD-GEORGEThe new duty will apply to spirits of whatever origin. I regret that I cannot see my way to exempt those produced in the British West Indies.
§ Mr. W. THORNEArising out of that question may I ask whether the tax on spirits will apply to alcohol used for manufacturing purposes?
§ Mr. LLOYD-GEORGEThat was exempted by the Bill of last year.
§ Mr. NOLANWill the right hon. Gentleman relieve spirits made in British Colonies of the 4d. per gallon levied upon them in common with German silent spirit?
§ Mr. LLOYD-GEORGEI do not quite understand the question. If the hon. Member will give notice I will answer it.