asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that there is a scarcity of whiskey at present in many areas throughout the country and if he will take steps to prevent the export of whiskey until the needs of this country are first met.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Whiskey Supplies.
I am aware that there is evidence that the quantity of whiskey at present being released for consumption, though considerably greater than the quantity of home produced and imported whiskey released in prewar years, is not fully sufficient to meet the demand. Exports of whiskey are restricted at present and export quotas have been established for registered exporters. Before these quotas were established, the supply position was very carefully reviewed. In view of the importance of maintaining an export trade in whiskey, I do not consider it desirable to reduce the existing export quotas.