HC Deb 17 March 1982 vol 20 cc111-2W
Mr. Sims

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what were the total sales of spirits in West Germany through the NAAFI for the most convenient recent 12-month period; and what percentage of that figure was represented by Scotch whisky.

Mr. Wiggin

Total sales of spirits by NAAFI in West Germany, including Berlin, for the period February 1981-January 1982 were as follows:

Cases
Scotch Whisky 36,964
Gin 10,206
Rum including Bacardi 45,145
Vodka 29,443
German Brandy 43,548
French Brandy 22,800
Total 188,106

Thus Scotch Whisky represented 19.65 per cent. of the total sales.

Mr. Sims

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he is satisfied that the rationing system imposed by NAAFI in West Germany in respect of spirits does not discriminate unfairly against United Kingdom-produced spirits generally and Scotch whisky in particular.

Mr. Wiggin

Sale of certain goods by NAAFI to Her Majesty's Forces in the Federal German Republic is rationed in accordance with long-standing arrangements under the NATO status of forces agreement. Since in practice the total ration for British Forces is not fully taken up the system is not regarded as unfair overall, not does it discriminate between whisky and gin of United Kingdom origin.

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