HC Deb 11 October 1939 vol 352 cc330-1
49. Colonel Baldwin-Webb

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he has considered the protests against the slaughtering of Shropshire cattle being made compulsory at Shrewsbury seeing that better facilities for slaughtering have always existed at Wellington, which is roughly in the centre of the county; is he aware that centralisation will entail great inconvenience to farmers and unnecessary cost of transport; that the slaughterhouses at Wellington are sufficiently large to meet all requirements, whereas the slaughterhouses at Shrewsbury are not; and whether he will consider remodelling the arrangements for the slaughter of meat generally in the county in consultation with farmers, butchers, and representatives of the public?

Mr. W. S. Morrison

I am informed that slaughtering facilities at Shrewsbury are greatly superior to those at Wellington. I am, therefore, of opinion that the interests of the farmer and the public generally will be better served by the proposal to concentrate slaughtering at Shrewsbury. I shall, however, be prepared to consider, in consultation with the interests concerned, whether any change in the proposed arrangement is desirable after experience has been gained of its working.

Colonel Baldwin-Webb

Is the right hon. Gentleman prepared to receive a deputation representing local interests on the subject?

Mr. Morrison

I shall be very glad to receive any representations from local interests in this matter. I would not like to commit myself to receive a deputation at the present moment, because, as my hon. and gallant Friend will realise, I have to receive a very large number.

Colonel Baldwin-Webb

Might I be permitted to bring local representatives to see the principal officers of the right hon. Gentleman's Department?

Mr. Morrison

Certainly.

Sir George Mitcheson

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that the same applies to bacon, and will he also go into this question with the farmers?

Mr. Morrison

I shall be glad to receive any representations from local bodies on this matter, and I hope that in due course when the scheme gets going the choice of a suitable centre will be placed very largely in the hands of local bodies.

Sir J. Nall

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the provisions with regard to slaughter houses in the scheme will cause the very greatest inconvenience and delay in rural districts?

Mr. Morrison

I do not think that charge in general is justified.

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