HC Deb 15 February 1955 vol 537 cc185-6
38. Sir T. Moore

asked the President of the Board of Trade the total quantity of Scotch whisky exported in 1954.

Mr. H. Strauss

The trade statistics do not show Scotch and Irish whisky separately. 13,691,000 proof gallons of whisky were exported in 1954.

Sir T. Moore

Although this point is not in the Question, may I ask whether my hon. and learned Friend has any in-formation handy to show how those figures compare with the figures of the previous year?

Mr. Strauss

Yes. The corresponding figure in 1952 was 11,531,000 and, in 1953, 13,206,000. There has been a further increase.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Is the Minister aware that there will be great discontent in Scotland if there is no Scotch whisky? Is he aware that, because of the extremely high profits, the time has come to refer this matter to the Monopolies Commission?

Mr. Strauss

I quite understand that there would be distress in Scotland if the facts were as stated by the hon. Member.