HC Deb 17 February 1947 vol 433 cc787-8
47. Mr. Thomas Macpherson

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he will make a statement regarding increased rations for domestic poultry keepers.

The Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Thomas Williams)

I regret that sufficient supplies of feedingstuffs are not at present in sight to render possible even a partial restoration of the reduction in rations which had to be imposed on domestic poultry keepers last October. Sympathetic consideration will, however, be given to their position at the earliest possible moment.

Mr. Macpherson

In view of the importance of the domestic poultry keeper not only in the national interest, but in the interest of the poultry breeding industry, will the Minister reconsider this matter and try to do something before the new season starts?

Mr. Williams

I can assure my hon. Friend that I have had such a close connection with domestic poultry keepers myself that I shall not waste a single day, when feedingstuffs are available, before reconsidering their case.

Major Legge-Bourke

Will the Minister consider asking his right hon. Friend the Minister of Food whether he does not consider that feedingstuffs for poultry are rather more important than grapefruit?