§ 53. Mr. HARNEYasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that much of the brandy imported from France into this country is not of the age or vintage its description indicates; whether steps can be taken, in the interests of the consumers of brandy and of the general public, to secure an agreement with France of a like nature to that which now exists with Portugal with reference to port; and whether the age and vintage of brandy imported could be secured by some form of Government guarantee?
§ Captain HACKINGI have no information to the effect indicated in the first part of the question, and I am not aware that any action on the lines suggested in the second and third parts of the question is called for.
§ Mr. HARNEYHas the hon. and gallant Gentleman's attention been called to an article published recently in the "Daily Mail"—
§ Mr. SPEAKERWe cannot advertise newspapers.
§ Mr. SCRYMGEOURAs wine is the mocker of all ages, will the Government take into consideration the protection of the country against this business?
§ Mr. THURTLEBefore the hon. and gallant Gentleman takes any action in this matter, will he consider it his busi- 502 ness to consult some of the brandy experts?
§ Mr. JOHNSTONArising out of the first part of the question, may I ask your guidance whether it is not the case that Members putting down a question must make themselves responsible for the facts?
§ Mr. SPEAKERI am quite sure the hon. and learned Gentleman did that.