§ Mr. FIELD(by Private Notice) asked the Food Controller whether he has received a wire from the South of Ireland Cattle Trade Association regarding the restrictions of export of fat cattle from Ireland; whether he will reconsider this decision in view of the facts put forward in the interest of consumers and producers?
§ Major ASTORAs I informed the House last Tuesday it has been necessary to restrict the slaughtering of cattle by refusing at the markets many thousands of beasts from English farms, and as the hon. Member for Boston was informed last Thursday, temporary restrictions have been imposed on the shipment of beasts from Ireland so as to place Irish farmers on an equality With the farmers of Great Britain. The Irish Department of Agri- 408 culture were approached on this matter a fortnight ago, and I understand that the question of limiting export was fully discussed with the Irish Cattle Dealers' Association. The Food Controller can only express the hope that Irish as well as British farmers will realise that the holding back of cattle at the present time is the only policy which will secure the necessary meat ration for the first four months of next year. With a view to encouraging farmers so to hold back cattle and in order to meet any additional expense incurred in doing so it is proposed to increase somewhat the prices already announced for cattle and sheep. The increases proposed and the periods to which they apply will be announced almost immediately.
§ Mr. FIELDIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the cattle dealers are entirely opposed to this policy?
§ Major ASTORI hope, when the Irish cattle dealers hear the policy, that they will not be opposed to it.
§ Mr. FIELDThey have heard it, and they disapprove of it. I will put down another question for Thursday.