§ 18. Mr. Leighasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent representations he has received concerning the duty on beer.
§ Mr. HayhoeRepresentations have been received from a number of organisations, including the Brewers' Society, Licensed Victuallers Associations, the Association of Licensed House Managers as well as from individual companies and members of the public. All these representations are being carefully considered by my right hon. Friend.
§ Mr. LeighDoes my hon. Friend agree that in a beer-drinking country sudden increases in the duty on beer are as unwise for the political health of the Chancellor as imbibing large quantities of wine are unwise for his physical health?
§ Mr. HayhoeI am sure that my right hon. Friend the Chancellor has heard that sage advice, but I know that my hon. Friend would not expect me to anticipate my right hon. Friend's Budget statement.