HC Deb 10 February 1944 vol 396 cc1906-7
57. Captain Duncan

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what progress has been made in the plans of the United Nations for restocking Europe with livestock, especially cattle and, in particular, what plans have been made for the conversion of shipipng for the carriage of stock; and what action is being taken now for the collection of suitable stock in this country and elsewhere?

The Minister of State (Mr. Richard Law)

This is a question which falls to be dealt with by the United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration. If my hon. and gallant Friend will refer to Command Paper 6497, he will, I think, find that Resolutions Nos. 11 and 27 of the Council of U.N.R.R.A. and the Report of Sub-Committee 5 of Committee 4 are relevant to the matter he has in mind.

Captain Duncan

As we in this country must play our part, can the right hon. Gentleman say what action the British Government have taken to collect animals in this country now; and is he aware that young female cattle of good breed, are at present being slaughtered for food?

Mr. Law

No, Sir, I was not aware of that point, but I think the hon. and gallant Member's supplementary question raises matters which can be dealt with only by the Minister of Agriculture.

Captain Duncan

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I put this Question down to the Prime Minister, and that it was transferred to him? Therefore, he must bear responsibility for the answer. Will he look into this question of the slaughtering of young female cattle for food at the present time, and stop the practice?

Mr. Law

I will certainly draw the attention of the Minister of Agriculture to this point.