§ 38. Mr. BUTCHERasked the Prime Minister whether a Departmental Committee has been appointed to consider the question of the supply of food for dogs and other questions connected with the keeping of dogs; if so, who are the members of this Committee; and whether an opportunity will be afforded to owners of dogs and manufacturers of dogs' food of appearing before this Committee and stating their views?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Bonar Law)The question of the possibility of effecting a reduction in the consumption of food by dogs is under the consideration of a Committee of Ministers at the 1972 present time. It would not be usual nor, I think, desirable to give the names of a Committee of this kind. The immediate problem created by the present shortage of dog food is an administrative matter under the direction of the Food Controller.
§ Mr. BUTCHERWill the right hon. Gentleman answer the last part of the question, as to whether an opportunity will be afforded to owners of dogs and manufacturers of dogs' food of appearing before the Committee?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI think it is rather a case of appearing before the Food Controller than the Committee?
§ Mr. BUTCHERIs it not the Committee which is considering this question, and should not these people be given an opportunity of appearing before the Committee?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI will put my hon. and learned Friend's views before the Chairman of the Committee.
§ Mr. RENDALLHaving regard to the great importance of this question and the very strong feeling which persons have about their dogs, would the right hon. Gentleman, before a decision is taken about any reduction in the number of dogs, see that the House of Commons has an opportunity of being consulted on the matter?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI would not like to give an absolute pledge on the subject, but I think there is a great deal of force in what the hon. Member has said.