§ 32. Sir FERGUS GRAHAMasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he can give the House any further information as to voluntary arrangements come to with Empire or foreign countries for regulating the import of meat into this country?
§ Major ELLIOTSince the statement which I made in the House on the 7th November consultations with representatives of the foreign bacon exporting countries have been held on the question of the reduction to be effected in the imports of bacon and hams into this country during the two months beginning on midnight, 22nd November. These consultations were brought to a conclusion on Friday last, and communications have been addressed to the Governments concerned through the usual diplomatic channels. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs and I are in touch with the Canadian Government through the High Commissioner, and have every reason to hope that the Canadian Government will cooperate in the voluntary scheme.
§ Sir P. HARRISIs the Minister of Agriculture going to do anything to prevent the passing on of the increased price to the public by the retailer? Is he referring the matter to the Food Council?
§ Major ELLIOTI am in touch with all these matters.