§ 87. Mr. F. ROBERTSasked the Minister of Food whether he is aware of the large number of calves now being sold for slaughter; and whether, in view of the serious effect this is likely to have on milk and meat production in the future, he proposes to take any steps to again assume control of calves?
The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Sir A. Boscawen)The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. In answer to the second part, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to the hon. and gallant Member for Epping on the 1st inst.
§ Mr. LAMBERTIs the Board taking any steps to prevent the slaughter of calves which threatens to have very serious consequences later on?
Sir A. BOSCAWENWe are watching the situation. Several orders have been issued already but have been quite ineffective. I hope that this matter will be cleared and that a better state of affairs will prevail after 4th July when meat is decontrolled.
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREWhat is the cause of the excessive slaughter of calves at present?
Sir A. BOSCAWENProbably the price of veal: also the fact that dairy farmers wish to have milk to sell.
§ Mr. PRETYMANIs the hon. Gentleman aware that if measures are to be taken they should be put into operation immediately, and that two or three months hence will be much too late?
Sir A. BOSCAWENWe are watching the situation carefully., We have had many complaints in recent years, and yet the total number of cattle in the country has not diminished.