HC Deb 09 July 1952 vol 503 cc1299-300
22. Mr. Deedes

asked the Minister of Food whether, in view of the loss incurred by pig keepers unable to dispose of their pigs due to foot-and-mouth restrictions, he will consider raising the optimum weight at which the maximum price is payable for the duration of the outbreak.

Major Lloyd George

We are continuing in force until further notice an interim price schedule which is more favourable in the case of heavy pigs than that agreed with the National Farmers' Unions at the last Price Review.

Mr. T. Williams

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman not aware that far too many of the pigs at present being marketed are too heavy and too fat, at least when they are required for pork?

Major Lloyd George

I agree that is one of the troubles and is the reason for the new schedules, but there is also the hardship involved when farmers, through no fault of their own, are compelled to keep pigs back, and it is with a view to meeting these rather special circumstances that this present schedule is being kept in force.

Mr. Williams

Are we to understand that these increased prices are only for specified areas where there has been an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, or for the whole country?

Major Lloyd George

I should like notice of that question.