§ 63. Major M. WOODasked the Secretary for Scotland whether he is aware that dissatisfaction exists among Aberdeenshire farmers on account of the Food Controller's failure to open Ellon and Insch auction marts as grading centres for fat cattle; whether he is aware that, whereas the grading price is fixed on a fast of five hours, the present arrangements in Aberdeen frequently entail a fast of over 10 hours besides loss of weight caused to the animals by the railway journey; and whether he will make representations to the Food Controller with a view to the protection of agricultural interests in this matter in the country?
§ The MINISTER of FOOD (Mr. McCurdy)I have been asked to reply. The question of opening the auction marts referred to as grading centres for fat cattle has been carefully considered on more than one occasion by the Live Stock Advisory Committee for the area, on which are represented farmers, auctioneers, and other interests. 226 This Committee has decided that it would be inadvisable to establish further grading centres, especially as this action would involve the appointment of additional officials. The loss of weight occasioned by the present arrangements is already allowed for in the grading at Aberdeen. It would not, therefore, appear that any serious hardship is caused by the present system.
§ Major WOODIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is causing great congestion on the railways?
§ Mr. McCURDYNo, Sir, I am not aware of that.
Lieut-Colonel MURRAYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of similar representations to that referred to from other parts of Aberdeenshire; and may we take it that meat control will be abolished on 1st July—is that definite?
§ Mr. McCURDYI should like to have notice of that question.