§ Mr. Biffenasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what proposals he has to harmonise the excise duties on beer, wines and spirits so that such duties are directly related to the alcoholic content of these beverages; what discussions have been held with the European Commission on this subject; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Robert SheldonThe EEC Commission has put forward a series of proposals for the harmonisation of the structure of the excise duties on beer, wines 371W and spirits. There is no suggestion that the duties on beer or table wine should be charged with duty related to the degree of alcoholic content. The proposals are being considered and are likely to come before the Council of Ministers in due course.