§ 58. Mr. HOGGEasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he can state the amount of the abatement allowed on Licence Duties on account of anticipated 232 loss of profits due to liquor restrictions: what is the total loss of revenue since 1914; and whether, in view of the fact that profits have not diminished but increased recoupment will be sought in respect of the abatements made?
§ Mr. BALDWINAs regards the first two portions of this question, I would refer the hon. Member to the statement as to the position to the 31st March last contained in my right hon. Friend's reply of the 19th August last to a question on this subject by the hon. Member for the Kingswinford Division. No final figures for a later period are at present available. I may point out that allowances were originally made on account of the curtailment in the hours of sale and later on account of loss of business caused by the Intoxicating Liquor (Output and Delivery) Order, 1917. With the revocation of that Order as from the 19th ultimo, the allowances will practically cease. As regards the last portion of the question, the reply is in the negative.