§ 59. Mr. R. J. Taylorasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether, after cattle have been graded in the marts by experts, it is within the powers of a wholesale depot staff to upgrade; and, if this is permissible, how is the increased wholesale price disposed of?
§ Mr. MabaneCarcases of cattle are sometimes found to be of better or worse quality than might be expected from the live grading. In such cases the carcases are up-graded or down-graded. The Wholesale Meat Supply Associations sell the carcases as agents for my Department and account to the Ministry for the actual receipts.
§ Mr. TaylorIf the up-grading takes place, the consumer pays the increased retail price, which is reflected in the wholesale price. Is it fair to the farmer who has reared and fed the cattle that he shall not have the benefit of the upgraded price?
§ Mr. MabaneThe Ministry takes over the cattle at the collecting centre, and after that it takes all the risks. Whatever happens, the farmer gets his price. In point of fact the number of cattle upgraded is only about. 2 per cent. The farmer knows he will get his price even if there is to be down-grading, which sometimes takes place.
§ Mr. ThorneHas the hon. Gentleman seen heads of cattle for sale in the shops recently?