HC Deb 17 November 1931 vol 259 cc665-6
49. Sir BERTRAM FALLE

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the output of beer of a large brewery in the South of England has decreased by 22½ per cent. for the month of October, 1931, compared with October, 1930, and that with the increased duty-charge of 31s. per barrel there was a net decrease in Beer Duty paid for October, 1931, by this brewery of nearly £700 compared with October, 1930; and whether, in view of this loss of estimated new revenue, he will obtain a report from all breweries with a view to ascertaining the deficit in the revenue estimated from Beer Duty for the month of October, 1931, compared with October, 1930?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

The receipts from the Beer Duty, as from the other branches of revenue, are kept under constant observation, in the light of the question whether the yield estimated for in the Budget is likely to be realised. It is at present too soon to determine that question.

Viscountess AST0R

Would it be the policy of any Government to increase beer drinking because of the revenue which it brings in?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I cannot answer for "any Government."

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Is it not better to encourage beer drinking than bootlegging?

61. Lieut.-Colonel SPENDER-CLAY

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the number of barrels of beer brewed and the duty realised since the increased Beer Duty was imposed in comparison with the quantity of beer brewed and the duty realised over a similar period last year?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the answer which the Financial Secretary gave on the 12th November to a similar question by the hon. and gallant Member for Sudbury (Colonel Burton).

Lieut.-Colonel SPENDER-CLAY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the great injury caused to the hop industry?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

That is one of the matters which will have to be taken into consideration.

Viscountess ASTOR

Will the light hon. Gentleman bear in mind the brewers' profits last year?