HC Deb 18 February 1930 vol 235 cc1198-9W
Mr. L. JONES

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he can state separately the amount and value of absinthe, vermouth, and absinthe-containing cocktails imported into this country in each of the years from 1921 to 1929; from what countries do these spirits come; and what is the total duty levied upon them in each of these years?

Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCE

No separate particulars are available with regard to vermouth or absinthe-containing cocktails, which are classified as "wine" or "liqueur" cordial mixtures and other preparations containing spirits respectively. The following information is available with regard to absinthe:

whether the loss of the order was because British manufacturers could not deliver by the required date; and, if such was the case, will he state the reasons for the inability?

Mr. GILLETT

I am informed that the South African Railways Administration do not make public particulars of tenders submitted to them and object on principle to disclosing such information. I am, therefore not in a position to answer the second part of the question, and the third part consequently does not arise.