HC Deb 10 July 1923 vol 166 cc1173-4
50. Mr. GARDINER

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the bonus or allowances of 3d. per gallon on each gallon of whisky exported from Scotland amounted to in the years 1913, 1914, 1921, and 1922, respectively; and do these totals include whisky sent from Scotland and shipped abroad at English ports?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

The information requested is not available, but the amounts paid in Scotland in the calendar years 1913, 1914, 1921 and 1922 in respect of exported British plain spirits (which includes whisky) were as follow:

£
1913 96,724
1914 93,969
1921 66,041
1922 57,148
These amounts represent allowances actually paid in Scotland irrespective of whether the spirits were exported from a Scottish or an English port.

51. Mr. GARDINER

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer who arranged the bonus or allowance of 3d. per gallon on each gallon of exported whisky; at what date was it arranged; what is the total sum given to exporters since the bonus was instituted; and what was the exact reason for giving this bonus?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

The allowance granted on the exportation of British plain spirits (which expression includes whisky) was first authorised in 1860 by the Act 23 and 24 Vict. c. 129, "in consideration of the loss and hindrance caused by Excise Regulations in the distillation … of spirits in the United Kingdom …" The rate of allowance was fixed at 3d. per gallon by the Finance Act, 1902. Information as to the amount of allowance paid since 1860 is not available.

Mr. GARDINER

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that most of the whisky exported is exported, not by the distillers, but by the blenders? Are they entitled to the 3d. if they have done no work therefor?

Viscountess ASTOR

Are they not now making such a sum from rum-running that they can do without this bonus?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I do not think that the last question arises. Under the old Act the allowance was payable to the exporter, whoever he was.

Mr. GARDINER

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the large amount of money granted to the exporters is sufficient to pay the costs of their businesses, and that they are making many millions of money? Should not this money go to the Exchequer?