§ 41. Mr. T. Williamsasked the Minister of Agriculture how many applications were received from local authorities, persons or companies to erect experimental slaughter-houses under the terms of the Livestock Industry Act, 1937; the number of applications that have been withdrawn and the number still under active consideration; and what progress has been made in connection with the schemes?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonI would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Barnstaple (Mr. Acland) on 14th June, indicating that the procedure adopted by the Livestock Commission has been to consult informally with local authorities and other bodies regarding the submission of proposals for slaughter-house schemes. I understand that the Commission have been in consultation with 25 local authorities and other bodies. Five local authorities have now intimated that they do not intend to proceed further with the matter, while three others have submitted definite and detailed proposals. The Commission are 25 not aware how many other submissions may yet be made, but I am informed that memoranda for the guidance of local authorities and other bodies will be published by the Commission in the course of this week with a view to facilitating the preparation of proposals and expediting the submission of detailed arrangements.
§ Mr. WilliamsCan the right hon. Gentleman give us any idea of how long it will be before the scheme for the first experimental slaughter-house is approved?
§ Mr. MorrisonI am afraid I could not give any estimate of time that would be of any value. It is obviously very difficult from the point of view of the local authorities and the interests concerned in the matter.
§ Mr. WilliamsIn view of the length of time that has elapsed already, may we take it from the Minister that, if the Livestock Commission should decide that none of these schemes can be accepted and applied, the Government themselves will undertake the job?
§ Mr. MorrisonThat is a hypothetical question in the present state of affairs. According to my information, there was trouble in the early days owing to the fact that some of the proposals were not sufficiently detailed to enable the Commission to form an opinion on them. They are now taking steps to issue information as to what particulars are required to be submitted with the application, and I am told that some of these proposals are sufficiently detailed for consideration to be given to them.