HC Deb 07 February 1957 vol 564 cc593-4
22. Mr. Lipton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer to what extent increased expenditure on beer from £195 millions in 1938 to £535 million in 1956 was accounted for by increased duty.

Mr. Powell

The duty accounted for about 57 per cent, of the increase of £340 million.

Mr. Lipton

If the bulk of the increase is due to more duty rather than to greater thirst, will the Financial Secretary say whether the Chancellor is considering a higher or lower rate of duty in the forthcoming Budget?

Mr. Powell

I must in no circumstances anticipate my right hon. Frend's Budget statement.

Mr. Marlowe

Would my hon. Friend agree that while the brewing industry, by its efficiency and private enterprise, has done everything possible to keep prices down, the recent increase in the price of beer in some parts of the country is almost entirely due to increased taxation?

Mr. Powell

I should like to see that question first.

Mr. H. Wilson

While we understand that the hon. Gentleman cannot anticipate his right hon. Friend's Budget statement, will he say what proportion of this increase in revenue is due to weaker beer?

Mr. Powell

I should like to see that question too.