asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware that the wholesale wine and spirit trade has been adversely affected by statements which have appeared in some newspapers that a reduction in the spirits duty was contemplated; and, if so, if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wine and Spirit Trade.
I am aware that statements have appeared in certain newspapers suggesting the possibility of the introduction of a Supplementary Budget to reduce certain duties, including the spirits duties, imposed last April. It has been represented to me that these statements have had an adverse effect on the wholesale spirits trade. In case that may be so, I take the opportunity to say that the statements are without foundation. There is no intention of introducing a Supplementary Budget.
Has the Minister adverted to the marked decrease in the clearances of spirits from bond since the rate of duty was adjusted?
I have, certainly. I have also adverted to the fact that there was substantial forestalling before the Budget.
Arising out of the Minister's last observation, will the Minister explain to the House how there could be forestalling in view of the fact that there was a closure on withdrawals from bond for seven weeks before the Budget?
Perhaps the Minister will explain why he stopped withdrawals from bond under the Revenue Commissioners' quota seven weeks before the Budget? Did that not operate to prevent forestalling?
Deputy Declan Costello and other members of the Opposition were demanding a Supplementary Budget in the autumn of 1951.
The Minister was going to bring one in, but his Party would not allow it.