HC Deb 31 May 1945 vol 411 c357
52. Lady Apsley

asked the Minister of Agriculture if, in order to obtain reliable statistics for breeders of dairy cattle, he will institute a scheme of compulsory milk recording.

Mr. Hudson

Under present conditions I am afraid it would not be practicable to institute a compulsory scheme.

Lady Apsley

Will the Minister appreciate how very necessary this is in the interests of milk production, and how important it is for milk producers?

Mr. Hudson

Yes, but I am sure the Noble Lady will appreciate that great progress has been made. Shortage of labour is the limiting factor in extending what she and I would like to see done.

Brigadier-General Clifton Brown

Is the Minister aware that since the Milk Marketing Board took over the administration from the milk recording societies, there has been a considerable reduction in milk recording herds, while at the same time a considerable increase has been shown in the Milk Marketing Board's accounts for milk recording? Will my right hon. Friend look into the whole matter?