§ 4. Major CARVERasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in connection with any meat marketing scheme, steps will be taken to ensure the setting aside of sufficient funds to undertake a publicity scheme in favour of home-killed meat?
§ The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Elliot)The Reorganisation Commission for Fat Stock for England and Wales has recommended that a Live Stock Marketing Board should undertake publicity. A scheme for regulating the marketing of fat stock has not yet been submitted, but I have no doubt that any persons considering the submission of such a scheme will have regard to the importance of educating the consumer as to the merits of home-fed meat.
§ Major CARVERIs my right hon. Friend aware that the low price of meat is largely due to, the decrease in home consumption, and does he not think that a publicity campaign of "Eat more beef" would benefit the agricultural industry?
§ Mr. ELLIOTI think such a campaign should be undertaken by the beef producers and not at the public expense.
§ Colonel GRETTONMay I ask my right hon. Friend whether there is any fund available for financing a publicity scheme?
§ Mr. ELLIOTIt would come out of the funds of the Fat Stock Marketing Board.
§ Mr. D. GRENFELLAre there any funds available for those who desire to purchase this beef?
§ Mr. ELLIOTThe continued fall in price is making it more and more advantageous to buy it.