HC Deb 25 February 1988 vol 128 cc303-4W
Mr. Whitney

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) why excise duty regulations permit British sherry producers to pay lower duty in relation to alcoholic strength than is charged on sherry; and whether he will make a statement on this distinction;

(2) why competing sherries are taxed under different regimes.

Mr. Lilley

Excise duties on wines and made wines are charged by reference to alcoholic strengths at the time of duty payment. The same rates apply to United Kingdom production as to imports. British sherry producers can achieve a lower duty burden by blending their products after payment of duty.