HC Deb 08 March 1956 vol 549 c2302
36. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the concern felt by Scottish distillers at recent difficulties experienced in marketing whisky in the United States of America; that these difficulties will result in decreased whisky exports to the United States of America; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

No, Sir.

Mr. Hughes

Is the Minister aware that at the recent annual meeting of Teacher's, the distillers, the chairman drew attention to the phenomenal increase in the consumption of vodka in the United States? Does not this show that we are losing the cold war even in America, and what is the right hon. Gentleman going to do about it?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I had a feeling there was something underlying this Question which I had missed. I have received no complaints on the matter from the Scotch Whisky Association.