§ 24. Captain HEILGERSasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that table poultry are being sold for 1s. 1½d per pound, which is 3d. per pound less than this time last year; and whether, seeing that this is due to the abnormal imports in December, 1933, which amounted to 38.1 per cent. of the total amount imported for the year, he will limit imports of poultry until the extra stocks have been liquidated?
§ The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Elliot)I am aware that prices of home-produced table poultry are generally lower than a year ago, but imports in December last were less than in the corresponding month of 1932 and 1931 and total imports also declined in those years. If my hon. and gallant Friend can furnish me with evidence to show that stocks of imported poultry are unduly large, I will ask the Market Supply Committee to report on the matter, but as at present advised I see no sufficient 747 reason for anticipating the findings of the Reorganisation Commission now sitting. My hon. and gallant Friend will be aware that the Customs Duty on foreign dead poultry, other than turkeys and guinea fowl, was increased to 3d per lb. in September last.
§ Captain HEILGERSWhile thanking my right hon. Friend, may I ask him whether he will consider limiting the imports of poultry from the Irish Free State, which constitute 25 per cent. of our imports at present?
§ Mr. ELLIOTI have said in my original answer that, if I can be furnished with evidence that stocks of imported poultry are unduly large, I will ask the Market Supply Committee to go into the matter.