§ Mr. Pavittasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if the increase of duty on beer, 40 per cent. more than the increase on spirits in his last four Budgets, and the increase since 1974 of 141 per cent. on beer and only 75 per cent. on spirits, is in pursuit of a policy concerned with alcoholism as a health hazard; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. Robert SheldonDecisions on the taxation of alcoholic drinks depend on a number of factors, including revenue needs, the effect on prices, and the general economic situation.