HC Deb 12 June 1912 vol 39 c857
43. Mr. WRIGHT

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture whether he will, at an early date, introduce legislation prohibiting the use of hop substitutes in brewing, in accordance with the recommendations of the Select Committee on the Hop Industry in 1908, and in fulfilment of the conditional promise made by the Chancellor of the Exchequer on 22nd July, 1908?

The PRESIDENT Of the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Runciman)

I am unable to hold out any prospect of legislation on this subject during the present Session.

Mr. WRIGHT

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this subject is non-controversial, and that legislation in this direction is desired by all parties?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

In the year 1908 such a Bill was promised if general assent was given to the principle, but that general assent was not forthcoming.

Mr. WRIGHT

Is it not a fact that the opposition to that Bill was on the question of the marking of foreign hops, and not on the point raised in this question?