HC Deb 18 February 1980 vol 979 cc16-7W
Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, in view of the increase of alcoholism, he will initiate a departmental investigation to ascertain the extent of sales to home brewing kits; and whether he will take steps to ensure that such kits not sold to those under 18 years old.

Mr. Raison

The information available does not suggest that home brewing kits have contributed significantly to any increase in alcoholism, or that they are particularly abused by young persons. Accordingly, we have no plans to initiate a departmental investigation, nor to propose that the scope of the Lincensing Act 1964 should be widened so as to bring the sale of the kits under its control.