HC Deb 04 April 1917 vol 92 cc1269-70
60. Mr. A. WILLIAMS

asked the Prime Minister what amount of malt is being used weekly for the production of beer and other intoxicating liquors; and whether he will consider the advisability of such malt being used for the feeding of stock?

Captain BATHURST

The weekly amount of malt now being used in the manufacture of beer is approximately 40,000 qrs. I have no precise information as to the amount used in manufacturing other intoxicating liquors. The use of malt as a food for stock would be a very costly expedient.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the dearth of food for stock in this country is so great that it is seriously asserted we shall have to slaughter part of our stock for want of food?

Captain BATHURST

It may in the long run prove in the national interest to do so. It is very undesirable that a large quantity of cereal food should be consumed by live stock when it is wanted for human beings.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Cannot the stock be kept alive by the use of this malt?

Mr. DEPUTY-SPEAKER

That is a matter of argument.

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