§ Mr. ROWLANDSasked the Food Controller whether it has been decided to allow a larger output of beer and of a better quality; and, if so, can he state the quantity and when it will commence?
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Mr. ROBERTSAn increase of 25 per cent. on the statutory barrelage, and an increase of 2 degrees in the permitted average gravity, to take effect as from 1st January, 1919, has already been announced. The question of taking further measures in the same direction is now receiving consideration.
§ Major HENNESSYasked the Food Controller whether, in view of the fact that sick persons and those on their death bed are unable now in many districts to obtain stimulants when advised by their medical attendant that such is necessary, the Government will make a statement on the subject?
Mr. ROBERTSI am glad to be able to inform the hon. and gallant Member that since his question was put down, the Cabinet have decided that spirits shall now be released up to 75 per cent. instead of 50 per cent. of the qualities released in 1916,and that considerable additional supplies will therefore now be available.
§ Sir ARTHUR FELLasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much is the Government tax or profit on a bottle of whisky which is retailed at the bars at the present time at the price of about 30s. a bottle?
§ Mr. BALDWINMy right hon. Friend is not aware that any spirits are retailed at bars at present at the rate of about 30s. a bottle. This price is much in excess of the maximum price fixed in respect of retail sales by the Spirits (Prices and Description) No. 2 Order, 1918. The duty on spirits varies in proportion to their strength. On a reputed quart bottle of whisky of a strength of thirty degrees under proof it is 3s. 6d. Apart from the tax Government makes no other profit.