§ 28. Mr. STANIERasked the President of the Board of Agriculture whether he has taken any action with regard to the American Beef Trust in South America in order to safeguard the meat supply of this country; whether his attention has been called to the fact that five companies have had to close their establishments to avoid further losses; and if he could say what the Government has done?
The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Robertson)I am aware of the apprehensions caused to British firms engaged in the Argentine meat trade by the recent action of the United States firms similarly engaged, but I have no information as, to the closing down of any establishments. I understand that the matter is under the consideration of the Argentine Government, who are primarily concerned, and any well-considered steps which they may take with the object of maintaining an unrestricted 1609 trade will be viewed by His Majesty's Government with sympathy and satisfaction.
§ Mr. FIELDWill the right hon. Gentleman's Department confer with the representatives of those firms who compose the meat trade in America in order that some practical action may be taken?
Mr. ROBERTSONIf these trades approach the Board, of course their representations will be fully considered.