§ 21. Mr. Murrayasked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware that the rations granted for goats are inadequate; that goats milk is urgently required by hospitals and ailing people; and if he will examine the position with a view to increasing the rations.
§ Sir T. DugdaleNo, Sir. Rations for goats depend on the quantity of milk produced and are on much the same scale as for dairy cows. I have consulted my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health, but he is not aware of any urgent unsatisfied demand for goats' milk as suggested.
§ Mr. MurrayIs the Minister aware that the Durham Society of Goat Keepers say that the rations are hopelessly inadequate at the present time? Does he agree that in the summer months a dry goat receives the same quantity of rations as a goat giving 10 to 15 lb. of milk a day? Will he therefore look at the matter again to see if he can encourage goat keepers who are trying to do a good job of work?
§ Sir T. DugdaleThis point has been drawn to the attention of the Ministry on previous occasions, and the view has always been held that to grant further rations to goats would be to treat goats better than cows. But if the hon. Member has a particular case in mind to which he wishes to draw my attention I will investigate it.