§ 31. Mr. Freudasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what is his value of the wine stock of the Refreshment Department (a) at cost price, and (b) as a percentage of the monthly consumption.
§ Mr. Joseph DeanI have been asked to reply.
At 30 April, the cost value of wines stocked by the Refreshment Department was £30,207. This represented 290 per cent. of the monthly consumption, based on average consumption during the three months from 1 February to 30 April this year.
§ Mr. FreudI am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for those figures. Does not he consider that, in view of the quality of the wine that we get, it is purchased more for instant consumption than for appreciation in value or quality? Might it not be an idea to have a small percentage of that wine stock put by so that it might appreciate both in quality and value?
§ Mr. DeanThe taste of drinkers varies. Hon. Members who have tasted wines on behalf of the Catering Committee have put that view. Nevertheless, the Committee as a whole decided on the basis of the known evidence that the overwhelming majority of hon. Members prefer cheaper wines. That may have some connection with the salaries that we receive.
§ Mr. John SilkinWill my hon. Friend bear in mind that, Warrington or no Warrington, there will be no necessity to increase the claret stock in the House?