asked the Minister for Supplies if he will state the number of proof gallons of whiskey exported in each of the three years to 31st January, 1943; and whether, in view of the necessity for conserving the whiskey stocks in the country, he will prohibit the further export of whiskey and consult with the revenue authorities as to the advisability of reducing (temporarily) the number of years during which whiskey must be retained in bond before being released for consumption.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Export of Whiskey.
The publication of statistics of the kind covered by the question has been suspended since the outbreak of the emergency for reasons of public policy.
Stocks of whiskey are estimated to be sufficient to meet home requirements and the present limited export trade for a considerable time. My attention has, however, been drawn to recent' published statements alleging that there is a shortage of whiskey for the home trade, and the question is at present being re-examined by my Department. I am satisfied that there is no necessity to recommend to the Revenue Commissioners a lowering of the age at which whiskey can be released from bond for home consumption.