Bermuda (Buckfast Prohibition)

Oral Answers to Questions — Foreign and Commonwealth Office – in the House of Commons am 2:30 pm ar 2 Mawrth 2010.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Ian Davidson Ian Davidson Llafur, Glasgow South West 2:30, 2 Mawrth 2010

If he will discuss with the Government of Bermuda their policy on the prohibition of Buckfast tonic wine.

Photo of Chris Bryant Chris Bryant Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Europe)

I am always happy to discuss any matter with the Government of Bermuda, although the prohibition of Buckfast would be a matter solely for them.

Photo of Ian Davidson Ian Davidson Llafur, Glasgow South West

I am very glad to hear that, because Buckfast is a noxious substance that causes tremendous difficulties with antisocial behaviour and crime in my constituency and throughout the west of Scotland. It is very welcome news that Bermuda is considering banning it, and I welcome the fact that the Government will not intervene to prevent the Bermudans from doing so. Will the Minister undertake to give them a warm welcome when the new aircraft carriers visit Bermuda?

Photo of Chris Bryant Chris Bryant Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Europe)

My hon. Friend proves that, in the words of Horace Walpole, the anniversary of whose death is today:

"This world is a comedy to those that think, and a tragedy to those that feel."

My hon. Friend is absolutely right about the issues relating to Buckfast. The Government in Bermuda have not made it clear that they want to ban it, but they have made it clear that they are considering the issue. They have already decided to reclassify some other alcoholic and caffeine drinks.