HC Deb 25 November 1919 vol 121 c1619
55. Mr. R. YOUNG

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the decision of the Government to allow the unrestricted sale of whisky, they intend to abolish the present maximum price or to reduce it?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of FOOD (Mr. Mc-Curdy)

I have been asked to reply. It is not considered desirable to alter or abolish the existing maximum prices at present. The removal of restrictions will, however, in due course lead to competition between individual traders, which should result in lower prices. This will, it is expected, in turn render the maintenance of controlled prices unnecessary.

Mr. BILLING

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the present whisky being sold is thirty under proof? Can he do anything for that?