HC Deb 23 October 1956 vol 558 cc461-2
11. Mr. Godman Irvine

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what sum has been collected in the first six months in duty on cider and perry over 15 degrees proof under Section 2 of the Finance (No. 2) Act, 1956.

Mr. H. Macmillan

I regret that this information is not available. Duty paid on strengthened ciders and perries, which are charged with duty as British wine, is aggregated with other receipts of that duty and separate figures are not maintained.

Mr. Bottomley

Is the Chancellor aware that, as was warned on both sides of the House, the effect of this duty is harming this very important cider industry in this country?

Mr. Macmillan

I have no evidence of that, but, of course, I will watch it carefully.