HC Deb 28 March 1922 vol 152 c1123
36. Mr. HURD

asked the Home Secretary how the consumption of beer and stout and of spirits per head of the population in 1921 compares with that in 1913 on the basis of alcoholic content?

The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Sir Robert Horne)

I have been asked to reply. Statistics of actual consumption of beer and stout and of spirits are not available, but the estimated quantities, measured in terms of proof spirit, per head of the population, retained for consumption in the United Kingdom in the years ended 31st December, 1913 and 1921 respectively, are as follow:—

— 1913. 1921.
Proof Galls. Proof Galls.
Beer and Stout … 2.61 1.9
Spirits … .70 .39

Lieut.-Colonel ASHLEY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in this postwar beer there is no alcoholic content at all?

Sir R. HORNE

I am not so familiar with that matter.