HC Deb 28 June 1948 vol 452 cc1838-9
59. Mr. Shepherd

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will now announce plans for increased pig production.

Mr. T. Williams

The plans for increased pig production included within the agricultural expansion programme announced in August last are already taking effect. The returns collected on 4th March show an increase of breeding sows by 60 per cent. in the preceding 12 months. The retention of up to 20 per cent. of millable wheat and barley from the 1948 crop for feeding to the growers' livestock is expected to facilitate a further expansion of pig production on many farms.

Mr. Shepherd

As pig production is still inadequate for our needs, does not the Minister feel that the present feedingstuff position justifies a more adventurous policy than has been pursued?

Mr. Williams

That is a matter of doubt and speculation.