HC Deb 06 March 1940 vol 358 cc382-3
60. Sir Richard Acland

asked the Minister of Food whether he will send a representative to investigate the difficulties arising in the distribution of meat in Barnstaple, in company with, amongst others, leading representatives of the local farmers and butchers?

Mr. W. S. Morrison

I am not aware of any difficulties arising in connection with the distribution of meat in Barnstaple. If the hon. Member will let me have particulars of any complaints, I will have them investigated.

Sir R. Acland

Will the right hon. Gentleman look into this matter himself or send someone to inquire into it on his behalf? Is he aware that I sent him a communication last week showing that the farmers and butchers were doing all the work without getting any of the money, and that the middleman was doing nothing and getting all the money?

Mr. Morrison

I have made inquiries, and I am told that there has not been much complaint in Barnstaple, but if the hon. Member will give me any information, I will look into it.

Sir R. Acland

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that that is the answer he will always get if he asks the organisation to give him a report? Would it not be much better to ask the butchers and farmers themselves whether they confirm the reports which have been sent up by his own officials?

Mr. Morrison

The distribution of meat in Barnstaple is being done by those engaged in the trade. The only source of information my officers have are the butchers and farmers, and it is quite impossible for any widespread anxiety to exist without the fact coming to the knowledge of my officers.

Sir Percy Harris

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware similar complaints exist in towns all over the country, and will he consider sending special inspectors to investigate?

Mr. Morrison

I do not think it is true that trouble exists all over the country. There has been a certain number of complaints, and they are always investigated, sometimes with the result that it is found to be due to some misunderstanding. The only way we can proceed is if hon. Members will give information about a particular matter, and I will have inquiry made into it.

Sir R. Acland

If I give the right hon. Gentleman the names of two men engaged in the trade, will he communicate with them?