HC Deb 02 March 1933 vol 275 c541
79. Sir C. CAYZER

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, as a result of his recent conference with the representative deputation of cheese producers, he has now been able to formulate a scheme for dealing with the present importation of cheeses from the Dominions at an abnormally low price on the same lines as the voluntary meat importation restriction scheme?

Major ELLIOT

The dairy produce situation as a whole is at present engaging the attention of the Government, and am not in a position to make any statement on the subject.

Sir C. CAYZER

Is the Minister aware that New Zealand cheese is now being sold across the counter at 5½ per pound, and that, in consequence, the Cheshire cheese industry has been brought to the verge of complete collapse; and will he not immediately confer with the representatives of the Dominions and see if it is not possible to put in operation a restriction scheme on voluntary lines for cheese imports, on the same lines as the meat restriction scheme?

Major ELLIOT

That consideration is at present engaging the attention of the Government.

Sir PERCY HARRIS

Is the Minister aware that these low prices are much appreciated by the wives of unemployed men in the East End of London?