§ 52. Sir W. DAVISONasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what was the total amount of the Beer Duty paid to 208 the Inland Revenue for the month of October, 1930, and the amount paid, or payable, at the increased rate for the month of October, 1931?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe only comparison which can be made at the present moment is between the gross amounts of Excise duty assessed for the month of October in each of the years mentioned (but not payable until the following month). These were £6,076,000 in 1930 and £6,123,000 in 1931. I would repeat, however, that it would at present be premature to draw any conclusions as to the effect of the increase in the duty.
§ Sir W. DAVISONIn view of the apparent failure of the tax to produce revenue, and of the fact that it prevents a number of poor men from getting their accustomed beverage, will the Government take into consideration action will, a view to removing the duty?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINWhen sufficient facts have been accumulated, the Government will take that question into consideration.
§ 62. Captain P. MACDONALDasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether in view of the effect of the increased beer tax on the hop-growing and barley-growing industries of this country, he will give an early indication that it is the intention of the Government to reduce this tax at the earliest possible opportunity?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINMy hon. and gallant Friend will not expect me to anticipate the next Budget statement.