GORDON'S GIN

HL Deb 30 November 1992 vol 540 c81WA

Lord Cocks of Hartcliffe

asked Her Majesty's Government:

(i) When HM Customs and Excise were informed that the alcohol content of Gordon's Gin was being reduced to 37.5 per cent, and what was the date when the reduction came into effect; (ii) whether HM Customs and Excise have been informed of a reduction in the alcohol content of any other drinks apart from Gordon's Gin; and (iii) what representations have been received from the Brewers' Society since 9th April 1992, and what was the date and subject of such representations.

The Earl of Caithness

There is no requirement to inform HM Customs and Excise in advance of any change to the strength of alcoholic drinks and they were not formally advised of the date from which the strength of Gordon's Gin was to be reduced. Information volunteered by traders about changes to the alcoholic strength of their products is not recorded centrally by the department.

Since 9th April 1992, the Brewers' Society has continued to make a number of oral and written representations to HM Customs and Excise about Single Market procedural arrangements and the introduction of the new system for beer duty.