§ 43. Mr. D. MILLARasked the Minister of Munitions whether the experts consulted by his Department have reported in favour of the use of bonded spirits for the manufacture of munitions; when their reports were received; and when it is in tended to take action upon them, having regard to the necessity of conserving grain and other food materials at present used in the manufacture of alcohol for munitions purposes?
§ Sir W. EVANSMost careful consideration is being given to all these questions. Under existing circumstances, it is not proposed to make use of bonded spirits for munition purposes. Other ways of avoiding the use of grain are being considered. I may say that, except for a small quantity of spirit obtained from molasses, it has been arranged that only those patent-still distilleries which are used for the making of yeast are to be employed for the production of spirit.
§ Mr. MILLARMay I ask the hon. Member whether the experts consulted have given an opinion in favour of the use of bonded spirits, and whether he intends to use the pot-still spirits for that purpose?
§ Sir W. EVANSI can only say that my right hon. Friend has considered all the advice that has been given by the experts, and the decision which I have now read is his decision.