HC Deb 10 November 1947 vol 444 cc7-9
18. Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-Davenport

asked the Minister of Food whether any additional instructions have recently been sent to his inspectors to check the names of persons buying pigs in the open market; and whether he will consider the desirability of introducing a licensing system for all persons keeping pigs under the self-supplier system to ensure that it is not abused.

22. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Minister of Food if he is aware that at the recent meeting of the Scottish Federation of Meat Traders Associations, held at Edinburgh, allegations were made that there was a black market in pigs, that pigs which should have been sold direct to the Ministry of Food were being sold to dealers as stores at prices up to £53 10s., that this was having a disastrous effect on the overall bacon ration and what action he proposes to take.

Mr. Strachey

I know there have been allegations about a black market in pigs and I asked my inspectors at the end of August to take particulars of purchases at high prices. They will follow "up all suspicious cases. But I think that an extension of licensing beyond the licence needed for slaughter would not produce results.

Sir W. Smithers

Does not the right hon. Gentleman realise that all these regulations will fall to the ground, because hungry men will go to extreme lengths to get food?

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Is the Minister aware that at the meeting referred to allegations were made that bacon pigs had been sent to the big hotels in London? What steps are being taken to prevent the big hotels from getting advantage over the ordinary citizen?

Mr. Strachey

It is a mistake to think that all pigs sold above the maximum price are sold for illegitimate slaughter. There are a very large number of self suppliers' schemes—pig clubs and the like—which, perfectly legitimately, can buy a pig, keep it for four months, and slaughter it.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree with the suggestion implicit in the last question that big hotels in London are getting an unfair share?

Mr. Strachey

I cannot express any opinion on that unless, and until specific evidence is produced about it.