§ 33. Sir T. Mooreasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is satisfied that the maximum assistance is being given to the bee-keeping industry, in view of the potentialities of Scotland for the production of honey?
Major Lloyd GeorgeI do not know what kind of assistance my hon. and gallant Friend has in mind, but if he could let me have any suggestions, I can promise that they will be carefully considered. My hon. and gallant Friend is no doubt aware that the Ministry of Food already makes available to bee-keepers supplies of sugar for the purpose of winter and spring feeding, and that the staffs of each of the agricultural colleges in Scotland include lecturers in bee-keeping, who, with their assistants, are available to give instruction and advice to bee-keepers throughout the country.
§ Sir T. MooreWill the Minister bear in mind that bee-keeping is still regarded in many quarters as on the same level as the keeping of rabbits or white mice and 17 that it would be well if a definite campaign were started, possibly with a subsidy, to convince people that honey is an easily assimilated and valuable food for infants and children, as well as for ordinary grown-ups? Something is definitely required to bring home to the people that honey is a valuable war-time and peace-time food.
§ Sir P. HarrisWill the Minister also consider whether this is the proper time to carry out such a campaign?
§ Mr. KennedyIs the Minister aware of the potentialities of heather honey?