§ 21. Mr. Ralph Morleyasked the Minister of Food the reason for the scarcity of rabbits for sale for food in the shops: and if he proposes to take any action.
§ Mr. StracheyRabbits are only scarce in the shops in relation to the demand for them. Active steps are taken to reduce the number of wild rabbits primarily in the interests of food production, but also for their value as food. To supplement home supplies I hope to import at least 14,000 tons of rabbits from Eire, Australia and New Zealand this year— nearly one-third more, than last year.
§ Mrs. Leah ManningDoes the Minister feel satisfied that there is a fair allocation?
§ Mr. StracheyThe matter is subject to a control Order. We do what we can.
§ Sir W. SmithersWhy does the Minister keep on saying, "I propose to import"? Is it not the British taxpayer who pays the bill?