§ 69. Mr. Alpassasked the Minister of Food if he is aware that a large amount of meat has been condemned at the Westerleigh abattoir; and if he will review the position with the object of disposing of poor quality beasts in a more satisfactory manner.
§ Dr. SummerskillYes, Sir. My Department has made arrangements to slaughter low grade cattle at a few specialised abattoirs, of which Westerleigh is one. It is easier to safeguard the quality of the meat supplies distributed against the ration if the beasts which are apparently unsuitable for that purpose are slaughtered separately. The meat which is fit for human consumption from these low grade beasts is allocated for manufacturing purposes. Because the abattoir specialises in the slaughter of low grade cattle it is inevitable that the amount of meat condemned is high. I am sure that my hon. Friend will agree that this arrangement is in the public interest.