§ Sir JOHN BARRANasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the recent absorption of Argentine meat-freezing factories by Chicago packing interests, and the possibility that this process will be still further extended; and what steps have been, or are being, taken by the Board of Trade to ensure that the interests in this respect of the consuming public in this country shall not be endangered?
Mr. BUXTONI am aware that the undertakings of two companies operating in the Argentine Republic were acquired some years ago by United States firms, and that the latter are taking an increasing interest in developing the meat industry of the Argentine. As at present advised, I do not think that the existing situation calls for action on the part of His Majesty's Government, but the whole position will continue to be carefully watched.