HC Deb 06 February 1930 vol 234 cc2086-7
101. Mr. BUTLER

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will consider the desirability of introducing a differentiation in Excise Duty between beers brewed from British malt and hops and beers brewed from foreign imported malt and hops in favour of the former?

Mr. P. SNOWDEN

I would refer to the answer given on 19th December last to a similar question by the hon. Member for South-West Norfolk (Mr. W. B. Taylor).

Mr. SCRYMGEOUR

Will the results in this case be any different to the consumer?

Mr. BUTLER

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that such a proposal would make a very great difference to the barley growing districts, which are in a very depressed condition?

Mr. SNOWDEN

It seems to be assumed that the Government themselves are the brewers of beer. They are not. This is in the hands of the brewers themselves.