HC Deb 19 April 1934 vol 288 cc1116-7
26. Mr. LEONARD

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has considered a protest sent to him from the Scottish Provision Trade Association at the scarcity of hams in this country, while the world's supply is abundant; the resultant increase in British prices due to the Government's import restrictions; if he accepts the estimate contained in the protest that the over price which will be paid to foreign producers by the consumers of ham and bacon in this country in 1934 will amount to £12,000,000; and what steps he proposes to take?

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

I have been asked to reply. My right hon. Friend has received representations from the Scottish Provision Trade Association in respect of an alleged shortage of hams in this country, and he has asked the Market Supply Committee to examine the supply situation, and to give advice as to the steps which ought, in the opinion of the committee, to be taken to remedy any shortage which may be found to exist. My right hon. Friend is aware of the rise in prices of bacon and hams, but he would hesitate at this stage to accept figures based on estimates of bacon prices for the whole of the year 1934.

Mr. LEONARD

Is there any contemplated action to deal with the incidence of this matter on persons in the curing and kindred trades?

Dr. BURGIN

Yes, that will be taken into account by the Market Supply Committee.