§ Mr. LIDDALLasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) whether, in view of the serious decline of British spirits from approximately 18,000,000 proof gallons in 1919–20, after which there was additional taxation, to 8,500,000 proof gallons in 1933–34, and the hardship inflicted upon both industry and the general public by the present high taxation, he will consider making a reduction in the duty on spirits:
(2) whether, in view of the fact that the permitted hours of trading in licensed houses have for some years now been from eight to nine hours on weekdays as compared with from 17 to 19½hours in 1909–10 when the present basis of licence duty was fixed, he will consider making a reduction in the licence duty?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI have noted my hon. Friend's suggestions but he will not expect me to anticipate the Budget statement.