HC Deb 20 October 1952 vol 505 cc677-8
15. Mr. Morley

asked the Minister of Food if he will make a statement in regard to the request sent to him by the National Federation of Meat Traders to suspend the abolition of the licensing system for retail butchers.

Major Lloyd George

I carefully considered the Federation's views, but came to the conclusion that restricted entry into the retail meat trade is no longer justified.

Mr. Morley

Does the Minister think there is no substance in the contentions by the Meat Traders' Association, that de-licensing while meat is in short supply will increase distribution costs, increase black marketing and bring more competition from the multiple firms against small traders?

Major Lloyd George

I went into all this very carefully and I listened to the Federation's views, but after giving the question very careful thought I found no need why we should still have licensing in this trade more than any other, and as it is the policy of Her Majesty's Government to get rid of licences as soon as possible I took advantage of the opportunity.