§ Mr. R. McNEILLasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will state, in regard to home-made spirits during the year 393W ended 31st March, 1917, how many gallons were distilled in England, in Scotland, and in Ireland, respectively; how many gallons of potable spirits were retained for home consumption; how many gallons were exported; how many gallons were used for fortifying wines, ships' stores, etc.; how many gallons were used in arts and manufacturing; how many gallons were methylated; how many gallons were allowed as deficiencies; and how many gallons were there in warehouse on 31st March, 1917.
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe information promised by the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the 15th instant (OFFICIAL REPORT, Vol. XCIV., No. 74, col. 1314) is shown in the following table:
STOCK, PRODUCTION and DISTRIBUTION of HOME-MADE SPIRITS for the year ended 31st March, 1917. Stock and Production. Proof Gallons. Distribution. Proof Gallons. In Warehouse on 31st March, 1916 Distilled in 1916–17— 140,936,120 Potable Spirits retained for home consumption 18,796,287 Proof Galls. Exported 8,575,153 England … 10,444,595 Used for fortifying Wines, for ships' stores, etc. 694,665 Scotland … 27,998,749 Ireland … 13,201,141 Used in arts and manufactures 13,410,868 51,644,485 Methylated 8,538,292 Deficiencies allowed, etc. 4,815,749 54,831,014 Balance in Warehouse on 31st March, 1917 137,749,591 192,580,605 192,580,605