§ 7. Mr. W. S. MORRISONasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is in a position to make any statement with regard to the operation of the bacon scheme.
§ The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Elliot)The Government have had the Pigs and Bacon Marketing Schemes under review, and they consider that certain developments of the general plan for regulating bacon imports and assisting the home producer might now be made to the advantage of all concerned. They propose that the policy of maintaining a regulated market should be continued, but they are prepared to contemplate, as from the beginning of next year, an increase in the volume of imported supplies, subject to the imposition of a limited charge on imports from foreign countries the proceeds of which 2186 would be devoted to the assistance of the home industry as the situation may require. Such an arrangement would involve obtaining the assent of certain foreign countries who have at present a Treaty right to free entry of bacon into the United Kingdom, and His Majesty's Government propose to open negotiations with the Governments of those countries forthwith.
§ Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTEIs my right hon. Friend aware that the imposition of a levy will give great satisfaction to the producers?