31. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Agriculture what steps the Government are taking to increase the consumption of home-produced beef, since a large proportion of consumers are unable to pay the higher price for English meat compared with foreign; and whether the Government would be prepared to consider a subsidy to the consumer?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonThe Government's agricultural policy is designed to ensure the maximum supplies for the consumer consistent with a reasonable level of remuneration for the producer. This policy finds expression in the Livestock Industry Bill at present before Parliament. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.
Mr. De la BèreIs my right hon. Friend aware of the importance of increasing the consumption of home-grown foodstuffs and beef; and does he not think it possible to do something in order to assist in the nutrition of the nation?
§ Mr. MorrisonI should be very grateful if my hon. Friend would favour me with his concrete proposals to that end.
§ Mr. ThorneA rise in wages.
§ Mr. MorrisonI think it is true to say that increasing prosperity in the industrial community has been reflected in an increased demand for British agricultural products.
§ Mr. J. J. DavidsonWill the right hon. Gentleman accept proposals from this side of the House?