HC Deb 12 February 1941 vol 368 cc1352-3
42. Dr. Little

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in case of any changes in the prices of cattle, sheep and pigs in future, he will give at least four months' notice of any such changes in order that producers may be prepared therefor?

Mr. T. Williams

It is already the Government's practice to give producers as much notice as possible of future prices for livestock and other agricultural commodities. With this object the prices to be paid for fat stock for the ensuing twelve months were announced on 31st August last. Modifications are inevitable under war conditions, but the importance of enabling producers to plan ahead is well recognised.

Dr. Little

If a change of prices is contemplated at any time at least four months' notice should be given, as many raisers of fat stock in Northern Ireland suffered considerable loss when a decrease was enforced some time ago.