§ 68. Sir P. Hurdasked the Minister of Health whether, in order to emphasise the importance which the Government attach to increased food production at home, he will ask the local authorities concerned to say what action they have taken upon his recent circular regarding poultry and pig-keeping in their areas?
§ Mr. ElliotFor the reasons given in my replies to earlier Questions by my hon. Friend on this subject, I do not feel that I should be justified in following the course which he suggests, especially in view of the great pressure on the staffs of local authorities at the present time. I would point out that the circular refers primarily to the keeping of poultry and pigs on the housing estates of the local authorities themselves, and that the bylaws of local authorities do not in general place any restriction on the keeping of pigs and poultry except that of cleanliness.
§ Sir P. HurdCannot my hon. Friend devise some more effective means of supporting the Government's policy in regard to home production?
§ Mr. ElliotIt is very desirable that these matters should be drawn to the attention of local authorities, but I think my hon. Friend knows the jealousy of local authorities regarding too much crowding-in by the central authorities.
§ Lieut.-Colonel Acland-TroyteWhat is the use of encouraging people to keep poultry and pigs when there are no feeding-stuffs for them?
§ Mr. ElliotPigs kept near a house get the advantage of having any household waste.