§ 65. Mr. BUTCHERasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the fact that on 10th March, 1915, he promised, as soon as the House should reassemble after the Recess, namely, on 14th April, 1915, to give a Return of the sugar purchased by the Royal Commission on Sugar, with the dates of the contracts and other material facts, he is now prepared to give such Return, omitting such particulars, if any, as it may not be in the public interest to publish at present?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe Return promised on the 10th of March, 1915, was given on the 11th of May following. I am prepared to give a similar Return in respect of the 1915 crop as soon as it can be conveniently prepared.
68. Mr. CATHCART WASONasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he can give an approximate estimate of the quantity of sugar used in the manufacture of beer, and also in the manufacture of ginger ale, ginger wine, and lemonade; and will take into consideration the fact that the price of sugar prevented much jam being made last year, and curtail as much as possible the use of sugar in drink that cannot be regarded as a necessity?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe quantity of sugar, including its equivalent of syrups, glucose, and saccharum, used in brewing in the year ended 31st December, 1915, was 132,192 tons. There is no information available as to the quantity of sugar used in the manufacture of ginger ale, ginger wine, and lemonade. I have noted my hon. Friend's suggestion.