HC Deb 18 December 1933 vol 284 cc900-1
17. Mr. H. WILLIAMS

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he can state, having regard to the fact that the retained imports of beef of all kinds during the first 11 months of the present year have exceeded those in the corresponding period of last year by 5,790 cwts., what reduction in the retained imports he intends to effect during the current month as compared with December of last year?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Dr. Burgin)

I have been asked to reply. I regret that I cannot give a precise estimate but I anticipate a substantial reduction. Imports of chilled beef from South America which represent the greater part of our imports of beef will, I expect, be less by over 11 per cent. this month than a year ago. They are subject in the present quarter to an emergency reduction of 15 per cent., as compared with the corresponding quarter of 1931. Imports of foreign frozen beef, carcases and boned beef, are subject to a reduction of 25 per cent. on the same basis over the quarter as a whole, but I am. unable to give any precise estimate of the imports of frozen beef during the current month.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Has any estimate been formed of the canned beef that may be imported, and other forms of imported beef?

Dr. BURGIN

An estimate has been formed but I have not the figures with me.

Mr. LAMBERT

How comes it that there is an increase of 5,790 cwt., considering that we have been told by the Minister of Agriculture that there have been cuts of 10, 15, and 20 per cent.?

Dr. BURGIN

The answer is that imports from the Dominions have been received.

Duchess of ATHOLL

Is it not the case that there are no imports of chilled beef from the Dominions?

Dr. BURGIN

The Noble Lady is not quite accurate. There are some small imports of chilled beef from the Dominions.