§ 74. Mr. LYLEasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is able to state what would be the cost to the revenue of a reduction of 1d. per glass on beer now sold; and what is smallest factor of reduction in the cost which the Treasury can take into consideration in considering variation in taxation?
§ Sir R. HORNEA reduction of 1d. per pint in the duty on beer as now sold is approximately equivalent to a reduction of 30s. a standard barrel, involving an estimated loss of revenue of £26,000,000 a year, but increases or decreases of duty are not necessarily reflected in full in the retail prices charged.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think, under the peculiar circumstances of the case, it is the duty of the Government to look into the allegations of profiteering and see if he cannot keep the prices down?