§ 104. Colonel GRETTONasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware of the quantities of potable spirits which will have to be exported from the United States to Europe owing to the Prohibition Law; if there is any general restriction on the importation into the United Kingdom of very large quantities of spirits; if the immature Spirits Act applies to imported spirits; and, if so, what steps are taken to ensure that immature spirits are not imported?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI have no information as to the quantity of potable spirits in the United States or its intended destination. There is no restriction on the importation of spirits into the United Kingdom either as to quantity or age, but under the Immature Spirits Act no imported spirits may be delivered for home consumption until they have reached the prescribed age.
§ Colonel GRETTONCan the right hon. Gentleman say how the age of imported spirits can be ascertained?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe Customs require a certificate showing, to their satisfaction, that the spirit has been in bond for the time required, or they keep it in bond for the required time.