§ 53. Mr. Dodds-Parkerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much was spent in 1948 by the Government Hospitality Fund on wines, spirits and cigars, respectively; how much of this was spent on United Kingdom products; and how much on Empire products.
§ The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Glenvil Hall)During 1948 the Government Hospitality Fund purchased wines for stock to the value of £1,252, spirits to the value of £1,570 and cigars to the value of £738. The total of £3,560 includes £1,033 for United Kingdom products and £1,361 for Empire products.
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerWill the Financial Secretary give an assurance that, in view of the reduction in Imperial Preference, he will use the growing amount of money used by Government hospitality to increase purchases from the Empire?
§ Mr. Glenvil HallIt has always been the Government's policy so to do and we shall continue that policy.
§ Mr. Oliver StanleyHow much of this money has been spent on buying Algerian wine from the Ministry of Food?
§ Mr. Glenvil HallIf the right hon. Gentleman is interested perhaps he will put that Question down and I will do my best to answer it.