§ 36. Sir J. D. REESasked the President of the Board of Trade whether the export of barley, malt, and hops is now prohibited; whether British brewers are compelled to use 14 per cent. less material than they formerly used; and whether, seeing that if export of above products is permitted, tonnage is nevertheless required for their accommodation, and that in that case neutral brewers in proximity to Germany will be able to profit by restrictions imposed on the Home trade, he proposes to take any action in the matter?
Mr. RUNCIMANThe Bill which has been circulated is intended to reduce the use of brewing materials as a whole by 14 per cent., so as to attain a reduction of 33⅓ per cent. in brewing imports. The exportation of barley and malt is prohibited to all foreign destinations. There is no prohibtion on the export of hops, but I see no reason to suupose that any considerable export will take place.