§ 38. Mr. LAMBERTasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he can announce the decision of the Government relating to the regulation of oversea meat supplies?
§ Mr. ELLIOTFollowing the issue of the Government White Paper on the Livestock Situation (Cmd. 4651) discussions have taken place, and are still proceeding, with representatives of the Dominion and foreign countries supplying meat to the United Kingdom. I am not in a position at present to make any further statement with regard to long-term policy, but pending a final decision on this matter in the light of these discussions interim arrangements are under consideration with the exporting countries concerned for the regulation of meat imports for the period 1st July, 1934, to 31st March, 1935, when the Cattle Industry (Emergency Provisions) Act expires. I am glad to be able to say that a substantial measure of co-operation has already been afforded.
§ Mr. LAMBERTCan the right lion. Gentleman assure the cattle-raising districts of the country that they will be able to carry on their industry with a reasonable hope of a profit?
§ Mr. ELLIOTI could not give such an assurance as that to any industry.