§ 36. Mr. Barrasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will give the amount of geneva or gin imported into the Gold Coast during 1942, or the most recent estimate of imports for that year; and whether the Government of the Gold Coast have yet fixed the quota of permitted gallons of geneva or gin that may be imported during 1943?
§ Colonel StanleyThe answer to the first part of the Question is 31,209 gallons. I have not yet been informed of the quota fixed by the Gold Coast Government for 1943.
§ Mr. BarrWould the right hon. and gallant Gentleman explain why it is, in view of the Comparatively small amount of consumption and imports, the quota is still being kept at so high a figure? What is the principle? Is it to keep an open door for the time after the war for the incoming of liquor?
§ Colonel StanleyI do not yet know what the quota fixed for the coming year is. I have noticed that in the past two years the amount imported has been very far below the quota fixed.
Viscountess AstorDoes the right hon. and gallant Gentleman think that gin for the natives conduces to their moral, spiritual or physical welfare, and is he going to be responsible?
§ Colonel StanleyI would not like to enter into controversy on this subject with the Noble Lady, but I myself occasionally indulge in gin without any danger to either my moral, spiritual or physical welfare.
§ Mr. ShinwellWe want more ginger on the Front bench.
§ Colonel StanleyWell, gin is half way to it.