HC Deb 29 May 1968 vol 765 cc1821-2
36. Mr. Gibson-Watt

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many tons of rabbits have been imported from China to date in 1968; and what percentage increase this represents on the same periods in 1966 and 1967.

Mrs. Gwyneth Dunwoody

Imports of rabbit meat from China were 1,135 tons in January-April, 1968. This was the same as in January-April, 1966 and 1 per cent. less than in the same period of 1967.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

Could the Minister tell us why we have to import so much? Are we that pushed? Would the hon. Lady please recognise that the import of this weight of rabbits from abroad affects the whole market and such revenue producers as the Welsh Marches Rabbit Producers' Society?

Mrs. Dunwoody

This is a serious question. We have told the industry that if it can produce prima facie evidence of dumping, and material injury we would be prepared to examine it.

Mr. Patrick Jenkin

Is the Parliamentary Secretary satisfied that all these rabbits are dead? Is there any danger of them breeding like Chinamen?

Sir Knox Cunningham

Is it not a fact that these Red rabbits are dearer than ordinary British chicken? What are they to be used for?

Mrs. Dunwoody

Speaking as a housewife, if anyone chooses to buy something more expensive than chicken, I assume that it is because they wish to eat rabbit.