§ 19. Lieut.-Coionel Bromley-Davenportasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware of the large quantities of imported eggs which are coming on to the market when there is an increased supply of British eggs, with the result that home production is likely to be discouraged and foreign exchange wasted; and whether he will review this matter and take remedial action at an early date.
Mr. AmoryIn December last, the latest month for which statistics are available, imports were more than a third less than in December, 1954, and constituted only 15 per cent. of total supplies. In recent weeks my information suggests that the proportion of imports was much smaller. The home producer is, of course, protected by the guarantees given by the Agriculture Act, 1947.
§ Lieut-Colonel Bromley-DavenportIs my right hon. Friend aware that egg producers are finding it increasingly difficult to make a living, due to the low price of eggs and the high price of feeding-stuffs? Could not these imports be limited and our home industry protected?
Mr. AmoryI have told my hon. and gallant Friend that imports have been steadily dropping recently. As regards a fair price, I would remind him that the 2511 present guaranteed price was that which was agreed at the last Annual Price Review between the Government and representatives of the producers.