HC Deb 27 July 1926 vol 198 cc1907-8
53. Colonel MORDEN

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he has considered the question of an export tax on alcoholic spirits?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I have had the question of this tax thoroughly investigated, and I have not seen my way to incorporate it in the Budget proposals.

Colonel MORDEN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the indignation of all classes of the taxpayers in this country at the fact that they have to pay £5 a case duty on whiskey when the American bootlegger pays no tax at all?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I canvassed this question most hopefully, and an expert Committee laboured for many months last autumn on the subject, but, in the result, I came to the conclusion that it was not a proposal which would be likely to have good results or yield a substantial financial return. I should have been delighted to argue the matter at any time during the Budget discussions but, unhappily, those are already terminated for the year.

Mr. REMER

Will the right hon. Gentleman take advantage of the presence of General Andrews in this country at this time to discuss this subject with him?

Mr. CHURCHILL

He is dealing with another branch of the subject.

Mr. JOHNSTON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that he actually gives a rebate on the duty to people who export whiskey surreptitiously abroad?

Mr. CHURCHILL

As I say, all these things were most carefully considered, and the proposal did not hold water.