HC Deb 14 May 1925 vol 183 cc2028-9
77. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has considered an export tax on alcoholic liquors as a means of raising additional revenue; and what are the practical objections, if any. to such a tax?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I have nothing to add to the answer which I gave to the hon. and gallant Member on the 5th May, in reply to a question of a similar character.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Will the right hon. Gentleman refer to the answer given yesterday by the Financial Secretary.

Mr. CHURCHILL

I have answered this point. On the 5th May, dealing with the question of the broadening of the basis of taxation, I said: In framing the Budget I followed the usual procedure of examining in all their aspects a great number of proposals for both the reduction and imposition of taxation, and the results of my examination so far as the present year is concerned have been placed before the House." [OFFICIAL REPORT, 5th May, 1925; col. 750, Vol. 183.]

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say if, among other explorations, he looked into the question of taxing the export of alcoholic drink?

Mr. CHURCHILL

Yes, I did.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

What are the reasons why that has not been done?

Mr. JOHNSTON

Arising out of the original question, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he would not save considerable sums to the public Exchequer if he would cease giving an export bounty of 4d. on every gallon of whisky exported?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I am quite ready to re-examine the matter in the interval which will occur before the next Budget.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

I ant sorry to press the right hon. Gentleman. Can he give me an answer to the last part of the question. Will he say what are the practical objections?

Mr. SPEAKER

That cannot be done at Question Time.

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