British vodka, of the type mentioned in section 1 of the Bill, is required under the Immature Spirits (Restriction) Acts, 1947 and 1969, to be matured in a warehouse for at least three years. Corresponding Irish-produced vodka is not subject to a maturation requirement.
This disparity of treatment was held to discriminate against British vodka, under the terms of the Anglo-Irish Free Trade Area Agreement, and it was decided that it should be removed.
A section, providing accordingly, was included in the Finance Bill, 1971, as introduced. However, the section was deemed to affect the Money Bill character of the Finance Bill and, in the circumstances, was not proceeded with. It was indicated, at the time, that legislation would be introduced at the first suitable opportunity removing the warehousing requirement. On this understanding, the Revenue Commissioners removed the requirement administratively with effect from 14th July, 1971.
This Bill brings the law on warehousing of British vodka for maturation purposes into line with that applying to Irish vodka.
