§ Mr. Arnoldasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what weight he gives to international comparisons in relative rates of productivity in determining the competitiveness of United Kingdom industry.
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§ Mr. BrittanI assume that my hon. Friend's question relates to the application of the Licensing Act 1964 to the sale of alcohol by retail, and to the minimum quantities of alcohol that may be sold without a justices' licence. Under section 4(4) of the Alcoholic Liquor Duties Act 1979, selling by retail means the sale at any one time to any one person of quantities not exceeding
in the case of spirits, wine or made-wine, 9 litres or 1 case, and in the case of beer or cider, 21 litres or 2 cases.There are at present no plans to increase these limits.
§ Mr. Spellerasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps Her Majesty's Government take to monitor the activities of wholesalers of alcoholic beverages; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BrittanNo records are kept on the activities of wholesalers of alcoholic liquor.