HC Deb 23 November 1917 vol 99 cc1528-9
3. Mr. BYRNE

asked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture what steps, if any, he proposes to take to safeguard a supply of butter for the Irish people; and, if before any is exported, he will see that sufficient is retained for home use?

Sir T. RUSSELL

The matter referred to is receiving the careful attention of the Department of Agriculture. A conference will be held to-morrow morning.

17. Mr. NUGENT

asked whether a conference of British and Irish butter producers will be held in Dublin on Saturday next; if so, by whom and to whom the invitations have been issued; and what is the object of asking British producers to a conference in Dublin?

The CHIEF SECRETARY for IRELAND (Mr. Duke)

Yes, Sir. The Department of Agriculture, at the request of the Ministry of Food, have invited representatives of the Irish butter trade to meet the Advisory Committee to the Ministry of Food to-morrow with a view to discussing the future supply of Irish butter to, and its distribution in, Great Britain.

Mr. NUGENT

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer the last part of the question? What is the object of asking British producers to attend a conference in Dublin?

Mr. DUKE

The question is one of mutual agreement for the sale of Irish butter in English markets, and both sides may be expected to contribute something sensible to the discussion.

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