HC Deb 12 July 1954 vol 530 cc17-8
29. Mr. Holt

asked the Minister of Food if in view of the monopolistic developments in the marketing of pigs he will withdraw his leaflet to the trade entitled, "Pigs—Farmers Guide to the Fatstock Guarantee Scheme, 1954–55."

Dr. Hill

No, Sir. The leaflet sets out the arrangements under which the guarantees on pigs are paid, and it is open to all to benefit from these arrangements.

Mr. Holt

Is the Minister aware that the first sentence of this leaflet says that on 1st July, 1954, one may sell pigs to anyone anywhere and in any way? In view of the fact that under the agreement between the Fatstock Marketing Corporation and the bacon curers there is now a virtual monopoly in the sale of bacon pigs, does he not think it time the matter was put right?

Dr. Hill

The hon. Gentleman's facts are not quite right. It is open to the producer to sell direct to the bacon curers outside the F.M.C. or to the F.M.C. as well as in the market.

Mr. Holt

Can the Minister tell me who is outside this agreement besides Messrs. Walls and the Co-operative Wholesale Society?

Dr. Hill

With notice, no doubt I could give the hon. Gentleman some information.