§ 68. Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTEasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that large quantities of cider are imported from France and, after blending, sold as Devonshire cider or cyder; and whether he will consider taking action to prevent this practice in future?
§ Mr. GUINNESSThe application of the description "Devonshire" to cider wholly or partly produced in France might be held to be an offence under the Merchandise Marks Act, 1887. If evidence is forthcoming of any specific instance of this practice, I should be glad to consider whether the facts would justify the institution of legal proceedings.
§ Commander BELLAIRSMay I ask whether the Department have made any investigations into the alcoholic contents of this cider which is imported, and whether the Minister of Agriculture will draw the attention of the Chancellor of the Exchequer to the matter?
§ Mr. GUINNESSWe have made no inquiries.
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSBefore any steps are taken will the right hon. Gentleman ascertain exactly who are selling this cider?
§ Mr. GUINNESSAs I have said, we have not got this information. We shall be glad to receive it and look into the matter.
§ Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTEIs it not a fact that this cider, imported from France, is of such inferior quality that it cannot be sold in France under their law?
§ Mr. GUINNESSThere again we have no information, and we have no opportunity of examining this cider which is imported under the control of the Customs Department. The Ministry of Agriculture does not come in contact with it.