§ 36. Major M'LEANasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will explain the reason for the continuance of restrictions on the supply of spirits from bond?
Mr. ROBERTSI have been asked to reply. The restrictions on the delivery of spirits from bond were imposed at the time 2208 when it became necessary to limit the output of beer, and for the purpose of maintaining the proportion between the amounts of spirits and of beer normally consumed. So long as the output of beer continues to be limited, it is thought desirable to impose corresponding restrictions on the delivery of spirits for home consumption.
Mr. TERRELLWill the right hon. Gentleman recommend that the restrictions on the output of beer should be absolutely withdrawn?
Mr. ROBERTSI have given a good deal of consideration to this matter, and I am making a submission to the Cabinet.
§ Mr. B. TILLETTMay I add my appeal to that?
§ 61. Mr. JOHN JONESasked the Lord Privy Seal whether he is aware that, owing to the restrictions on brewing, brewers are unable to employ their demobilised men because there is not sufficient work for them; that, if the Government would release another 25 per cent. of beer, brewers would be able to reinstate the majority of their former employés, although they would have to discharge the women who have been temporarily employed in their place; that if the trade could be restored to its normal conditions, the women could be retained on account of shorter hours of labour; and whether this matter can be reconsidered?
Mr. ROBERTSI have been asked to reply. I am aware that the restrictions on brewing have reduced the amount of labour required in breweries as compared with conditions before the War. As I have already stated, the question of increasing the output of beer is now under consideration, but the decision rests not with my Department but with the Cabinet. I cannot at present make any further statement on the matter.