§ Mr. Andrew MitchellTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will be introducing any further legislation controlling the quantities of spirits or liqueurs sold for consumption on licensed premises; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LeighLegislation brought in last summer provided that 25 ml should be the metric measure to replace the existing imperial quantities of 1/6, 1/5, and 1/4 gill (23.7 ml, 28.4 ml, 35.5 ml). I am conscious, however, that parts of Scotland have traditionally used the larger imperial measures. Following consultation with interested parties, I therefore propose to introduce legislation to permit a second metric quantity of 35 ml for dispensing gin, rum, vodka and whisky. I do not propose, however, to extend prescribed quantities to other spirits and liqueurs.