HC Deb 29 May 1919 vol 116 c1420
77. Mr. R. McNEILL

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether any licences have been granted, or are about to be granted, for importation of foreign hops; and, if so, in view of the fact that there is a large stock of hops in the country, will he say why the intention to grant no such licences has been abandoned?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

The Board of Trade have neither given nor promised any licences for the importation of hops. I understand, however, that the Hop Controller has proposals to make respecting a limited importation of hops for the brewing of the increased barrelage of beer that has recently been sanctioned.

Mr. McNEILL

With regard to the proposals which the Hop Controller is making, will those proposals not have to come before the Board of Trade before any licences are granted?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I do not yet know what the nature of the proposals is, but as soon as I learn what they are I will let my hon. Friend know.