Captain BROWNasked the Minister of Food if he is aware that many workmen's clubs in the North of England are still rationed as regards whisky in spite of the recent concessions, and also that spirit merchants state they are unable to increase their deliveries until the big whisky houses decide on their policy; and if he will bring pressure to bear on these big firms to ensure that an ample supply is available, at all events, for Christmas and New Year?
Mr. ROBERTSIt is difficult for supplies of spirits to be increased in all cases until the trade have had sufficient opportunity of clearing from bond extra quantities in order to meet the altered conditions. Ample supplies should, however, be available by Christmas; and I do not think that, under the circumstances, the pressure which the hon. and gallant Member suggests is necessary.