§ Mr. SIMMasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that beer buyers feel that they are being unjustly taxed and unfairly treated, inasmuch as beer is often retailed in glasses containing four-fifths of half a pint, resulting in beer consumers paying tax on five barrels of beer where only four are consumed; that if a standard half-pint measure was universal the Revenue would gain considerably; that spirits are often retailed in varying measures, to the disadvantage of the consumer regarding quantities; and if he will take steps to protect the Revenue and the consumers of beer and spirits by providing for standard measures only being used in the retail trade in the same way as is proposed in the case of tea?
§ Mr. BALDWINIn the interest of national economy, the staff engaged in enforcing the Beer and Spirits (Prices and Description) Orders was disbanded last August, and the Orders, which contained provisions as to standard measures, were revoked. The present time is not opportune for re-introducing control and re-engaging the staff necessary to make it effective.
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§ Sir G. RENWICKasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can state the relative retail prices of beer in Germany and in this country?
§ Mr. BALDWINThe prices at which beer is sold vary with the quality of the beer, and there is not available from official sources sufficient information as to the prices and classes of beer sold in Germany to enable me to make the comparison for which my hon. Friend asks.