HC Deb 28 March 1949 vol 463 cc843-4
66. Mr. Turton

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the present size of the meat ration, he will now increase the quantities of feeding-stuffs made available for the breeding, rearing and fattening of pigs and relax existing restrictions so as to encourage the production of pork and bacon in this country.

Mr. T. Williams

Supplies of feeding-stuffs in sight are not sufficient to allow of any general increase in rations for pigs at present. But the extended scheme of rationing for pigs or poultry, introduced last October, is being reopened (for applications) and rations will be available to new applicants from 1st May. There are no restrictions on the keeping of pigs, apart from those imposed by the shortage of feedingstuffs.

Mr. Turton

Will the right hon. Gentleman get in touch with his right hon. Friend the Minister of Food, with whom he says he is on speaking terms, and get increased quantities of feedingstuffs brought to this country so that we can have more pork and bacon?

Mr. Williams

As the hon. Member is aware, I do occasionally meet my right hon. Friend the Minister of Food.

Air-Commodore Harvey

Can the Minister say when he expects to have increased feedingstuffs in order to increase pig breeding?

Mr. Williams

That depends on so many factors that I could not hazard a guess.