HC Deb 19 April 1950 vol 474 cc142-3
55. Mr. Odey

asked the Minister of Food whether he will undertake to arrange for full consultation with the tanning industry and other interested parties before he decides to take over from the Hide and Allied Trades Improvement Society and corresponding organisations in Scotland any of their functions as neutral bodies in the marketing of domestic hides and calfskins.

Mr. Webb

Yes, Sir. Consultations with the industry and other interested parties have been going on since November last, and a meeting with the Hide and Allied Trades Improvement Society is being held today.

Mr. Odey

Is it the Minister's intention to set up a State monopoly in the sale of hides and skins? If so, will he see that the functions of the Hide and Allied Trades Improvement Society are retained as protecting the consumers' interest?

Mr. Webb

I think we had better wait the outcome of today's meeting.

Mr. Vane

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell us the connection between food and skins and hides?

Mr. Messer

We cannot get the food without removing the overcoat.