HC Deb 23 November 1939 vol 353 cc1394-5
51. Mr. T. Williams

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has considered the advisability of prohibiting the slaughter of cow calves during the war, and what decision was reached?

Sir R. Dorman-Smith

Yes, Sir. This question is under close review, but it has been decided that present circumstances do not warrant any restriction or prohibition on the slaughter of heifer calves. It is hoped that the economic position of the milk industry will make it profitable for farmers to sell for rearing animals that are suitable for that purpose.

Mr. Williams

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman not aware of the grave possibility of farmers taking advantage of this opportunity to make ready money by selling their cow calves, and thereby endangering not only our future milk supplies, but our future beef supplies?

Sir R. Dorman-Smith

Yes, Sir, we are watching that possibility, but if we prohibited all slaughter of such calves, it might well be that the meat supply would be endangered.

52. Mr. Williams

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has any in formation concerning the abnormal slaughter of in-calf cows; and has any estimate been formed of what the effect of this will be in the future?

Sir R. Dorman-Smith

The information in my possession indicates that sales for slaughter of fat cows during October were heavier than normal, though I have no information to show how far this increase could be attributed to slaughterings of in-calf cows. The increase was, no doubt, due to higher prices for fat-cows, caused by local and temporary shortages of imported meat. Larger supplies of imported meat are now available, and prices of fat cows have since fallen, with a consequent reduction in the number of such animals sold for slaughter.

Mr. Williams

Is not the exact explanation that, while prices were fixed by the Food Minister for high-grade cattle, there was no sort of control of the price of in-calf cows, and hence the abnormal slaughter of that type?

Sir R. Dorman-Smith

There was no control of prices of cattle.

Mr. John Morgan

There is now, is there not?