§ Sir Hector MonroTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received from the Scotch whisky industry about the consequences of abolishing duty-free sales; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RyderThe Scotch Whisky Association has made representations on behalf of the Scotch whisky industry about the effects of abolishing duty-free sales within the European Community. In March my right hon. Friend the Chancellor replied to a letter written on the subject by the association.
The European Commission has made it clear that as a consequence of the completion of the single market duty-free shopping for intra-Community travellers should cease. The Scotch Whisky Association has pointed out that ending duty-free sales within the Community could adversely affect sales of Scotch whisky and remove a useful shop window for promoting its goods.
The Government will examine all the arguments carefully before reaching a decision.