HC Deb 30 May 1938 vol 336 cc1669-70W
Mr. Kelly

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will make an estimate of the cost of customs and excise supervision over the production of power alcohol in this country?

Sir J. Simon:

I assume that the hon. Member has in mind the cost thrown upon distillers by restrictions imposed by law for purposes of revenue control. Any such estimate must necessarily cover all alcohol whether used in the manufacture of power methylated spirits or industrial methylated spirits or used duty-free in arts and manufactures under Section 8 of the Finance Act, 1902; it could only be made after prolonged inquiry at the distilleries, upon which I am not, as at present advised, satisfied that there is ground for embarking.

Mr. David Adams

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will give a list of the companies to which the bounty of 8id. per gallon on power alcohol is paid, and of the sums of money paid to each during the last financial year?

Sir J. Simon:

It would be contrary to practice to disclose particulars relating to the business of individual firms