HC Deb 02 March 1926 vol 192 cc1229-30
48. Mr. BOOTHBY

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that foreign barley has recently been imported into the North of Scotland for the purpose of distilling whiskey, subsequently sold as Scotch, in such quantities as to render barley grown locally practically unsaleable; and whether, in view of the difficulties with which Scottish farmers are contending, he will consider the advisability of imposing a Customs duty on barley imported in to this country for distilling purposes only?

Mr. McNEILL

Some barley has recently been imported into the North of Scotland, but I have no information as to its disposal. As regards the last part of the question, I am unable to anticipate the Budget statement.

Mr. BOOTHBY

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether this imported foreign barley, which is being bought by distillers, is quoted at Lossiemouth at 53s. a quarter, while the price of malted barley grown locally has sunk as low as 32s. per quarter, and will he not, therefore, put a Customs duty on this imported barley to prohibit this importation altogether, as he ought to do, or use his influence with distillers to induce them to buy British barley?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member is now giving information rather than asking for it.

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