§ 19. Mr. Lewisasked the Minister of Food if he can now give details of the Argentine meat negotiations; when these talks are likely to be concluded; and what prospect there is of an increase in the amount and price of the basic meat ration resulting from these negotiations.
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeAs the House knows, these negotiations cover a wide range of trade matters as well as meat. They are continuing in a friendly atmosphere. Considerable progress has been made, but before a final settlement can be reached a number of important issues have to be settled.
I should at the same time like to let the House know about our prospective supplies of meat this winter. As is normal at this season, supplies of home-killed meat are falling sharply. This will require some reduction in the ration. I propose to reduce it to 1s. 8d. on 30th November and am glad to say that, thanks to prospects of greatly improved supplies from Australia, I hope to be able to maintain it at this level through the winter irrespective of supplies from Argentina.
§ Mr. LewisIs the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that all the housewives of this country will regret the latter part of his answer? Is he further aware that during the whole of these negotiations the Opposition have not in any way tried to embarrass the Government as the previous Opposition did when we were in power? Does he not think it is about time that the Government should try to get some settlement? Does he not think the houswives are entitled to have a decent ration, and will he not try to expedite these talks?