§ 29. Mr. SMITH-CARINGTONasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the anxieties felt by pig breeders and bacon curers, he can give them any assurance as to what minimum period they can rely upon for the continuance of the present policy of exclusion of carcases from the Continent?
Mr. GUINNESSIn view of the increasing prevalence of foot-and-mouth disease in Europe during the past two years, I do not contemplate that the withdrawal of the prohibition on the importation of meat from the Continent will be possible for a long time to come. I cannot specify any minimum period, but adequate notice will be given of any intention to withdraw the prohibition Order.
§ Mr. H. WILLIAMSHas the right hon. Gentleman's attention been drawn to the acute difficulties that are being experienced by some of the bacon factories, particularly the one at Reading?
Mr. GUINNESSYes, my hon. Friend has brought that fact to my notice, though I very much regret that I do not think it justifies any modification of the scheme.
§ Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGEWhat will be considered adequate notice?