§ 13. Mr. Jannerasked the Minister of Food if he will make a statement with regard to the proposed arrangements for importing meat on a large scale from France; and whether in connection with the proposed prior inspection of this meat in France by British officials, he will ensure that fully-qualified veterinary officers are employed for the purpose.
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeMy Department has been approached by the French Government about the possibility of their exporting meat to this country and we are now awaiting details of the quantities and prices they could offer. Before imports could be arranged, Her Majesty's Government would have to be fully satisfied about the safeguards for the protection of public health and also of our herds. Those questions will be discussed next week by veterinary officers of the French and British Departments concerned.
§ Mr. JannerWhile thanking the Minister for that reply, may I ask him to take precautions to ensure that really qualified people will examine the meat before it comes over here, particularly in view of the recent trouble?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeI can assure the hon. Gentleman that on these occasions, especially where poultry are concerned, very highly qualified people do go over there.
§ Mr. BaldwinWill my right hon. and gallant Friend give instructions that all the offals are sent to the incinerator and are not allowed to be fed to other animals in this country and thus spread foot-and-mouth disease?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeThat is a matter for the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries.
§ Dr. StrossHow much, if any, of this meat will be from animals slaughtered because of foot-and-mouth disease in France?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeI could not tell the hon. Gentleman, but I should think none.