8. Major NEWMANasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the danger to health caused by the inability of the public to obtain whisky other than in very small quantities over the bar of licensed premises; how much whisky is at present in bond and available for immediate consumption; and will he state whether the Central Control Board (Liquor Traffic) are responsible for withholding an adequate supply from the public?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY OF FOOD (Mr. McCurdy)I have been asked to reply. Figures showing the amount of whisky in bond, as apart from other spirits, are not at present available. The question of releasing further supplies of spirits from bond is now before the War Cabinet. The responsibility for withholding or granting such supplies rusts with the War Cabinet and not with the Central Control Board of Liquor Traffic.
§ Mr. G. TERRELLWere not the figures available in the last Parliament? Why cannot they be stated now?
§ Mr. McCURDYIf the hon. Member desires that figures showing the amount of whisky, apart from other spirits, be furnished I will make inquiry.
Lieutenant-Colonel Sir F. HALLHave we not had practically the same reply on every occasion the question has been raised? Will steps be taken to increase the supply to the public?
§ Mr. DEVLINIs the War Cabinet still in existence?
§ Mr. McCURDYI have no authority to speak for the War Cabinet.