§ Mr. CROFTasked what sum was paid into the Exchequer on and between 1st April, 1909, and 31st March, 1910, in respect of duty on whisky, brandy, and gin; and what sum was paid in respect of such duty during the corresponding period of 1908 to 1909?
The HON. MEMBERalso asked whether the amount of duty on whisky, brandy, and gin during the financial year 1909–10 is in excess of or less than the sum estimated in the Budget Speech of 1909; and what the amount of such excess or deficit is?
§ Mr. CROFTfurther asked how many proof gallons of spirit are represented by the duty paid in 1908–9 and 1909–10 respectively, and if there has been any decrease in the number of gallons upon which duty has been paid during the financial year just closed as compared with the preceding year; and, if so, what is the percentage of such decrease?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEI will answer these three questions together. As regards the first two, no records are kept of the amount of duty received on separate denominations of spirits, except in the case of certain imported spirits. As regards the third, my right hon. Friend does not think it right to anticipate his financial review of the past year.