§ 50. Mr. Hurdasked the Minister of Food how the current production of fish meal for animal feeding compares with the production a year ago and in 1938.
§ The Minister of Food (Mr. Strachey)Prewar production of fish meal for animal feeding is believed to have been about 70,000 tons a year. Production in 1948 was nearly 50,000 tons. No figures are yet available for 1949, as they are compiled quarterly.
§ Mr. HurdAs the lack of feedingstuffs is holding up pig production will the right hon. Gentleman make the most strenuous efforts to increase the production of fish meal?
§ Mr. StracheyYes, Sir. That is a matter with which we are concerned and we are thinking of increasing the price. No doubt the hon. Gentleman will see an announcement.
§ Sir Frank SandersonIs it not a fact that fish meal for animal feeding is produced only from fish offal and surplus fish for which there is no ready market; and as the quantity available today is less than it was before, does not that merely indicate that there is a demand for the fish for human consumption without it 372 being converted into offal and finally into fish meal?
§ Mr. StracheyAnother considerable factor is that of fish heads and whether or not they are landed.