HC Deb 05 February 1941 vol 368 c919
17. Mr. Creech Jones

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can now make a further statement in regard to the fixing of the gin import quota for the Gold Coast for 1941?

The Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. George Hall)

Yes, Sir. The quota for 1941 for civilian requirements in the Gold Coast is being fixed at 73,500 gallons, as compared with the quota of 150,000 gallons for 1940.

Mr. Creech Jones

Can my hon. Friend give us the reasonable prospects of the position?

Mr. Hall

I am afraid I cannot at this stage.

Colonel Sandeman Allen

Can my hon. Friend say whether there is any relation between this matter and the illicit distillation of spirits, and whether there is a drop in imports through illicit distillation?

Mr. Hall

I cannot say without notice.