HC Deb 02 May 1932 vol 265 cc816-7W
Mr. D. GRENFELL

asked the Secretary of State for India if he can give figures showing the quantity and value of the opium manufactured in 1930-31 at the Government of India's opium factory; what part of this output was intended for consumption in India; and the total revenue of the Government of India from the sale of opium for consumption in India?

Sir S. HOARE

During the year ending the 30th September, 1930—the Latest year for which figures are available— 1,276,616 lbs. of opium were manufactured, valued at Rs.115.45 lakhs. Of this, 705,067 lbs. valued at Rs.64.81 lakhs were intended for consumption in India. The actual consumption was however much less. The Government of India sell opium for consumption in India to Local Governments at cost price. The excise revenue of Local Governments and Administrations for the year ending 31st March, 1931, from opium was Es.318.72 lakhs, from which must be deducted charges including the cost of the opium.

Forward to