HC Deb 05 March 1923 vol 161 cc26-7
74. Lieut.-Colonel CROFT

asked the Minister of Agriculture what was the estimated total number of quarters of barley grown in Great Britain in 1922?

Sir R. SANDERS

The estimated quantity of barley produced in Great Britain in 1922 was 5,804,000 quarters.

Lieut.-Colonel CROFT

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the enormous drop in the price of barley and of the very great hardship it has involved to the farmers, and will he make representations to the Treasury that this must continue so long as the excessive Beer Duty is maintained?

Sir R. SANDERS

I am quite aware— indeed, painfully aware—of the drop. I have heard rumours that representations on the subject of the Beer Duty have already been made to the Treasury.

Mr. PRINGLE

Is the right Gentleman not aware that the enormous drop in the price of barley has not been reflected in the price of beer?

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