§ Major BOYD - CARPENTERasked the Food Controller whether he is aware that, owing to the restrictions upon the sale of spirits, it is still almost impossible in the city of Bradford, where influenza is rife, for anyone, even if in possession of a doctor's certificate, to obtain either whisky or brandy, and that the public in Bradford believe that much unnecessary suffering is caused and many deaths have occurred as a result of the inability of sick persons to obtain these stimulants when ordered?
Mr. ROBERTSAs the hon. and gallant Member will be aware, it has now236W been decided that the quantity of spirits permitted to be withdrawn from bond for home consumption has been increased from 50 per cent. to 75 per cent. of the quantity released in 1916. It is expected that this concession will afford relief almost immediately.
Lieutenant-Colonel C. LOWTHERasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware of the grave resentment throughout the country caused by the difficulty of sick persons to obtain spirits, even when in possession of a medical certificate; and if there remains any valid reason for withholding the necessary supply?
Mr. ROBERTSI have been asked to reply. I can add nothing to the answer already given to the hon. and gallant Member on this subject.