HC Deb 20 February 1956 vol 549 cc22-3
34. Mr. Collins

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the average of the subsidy paid per pig during the period from the commencement of the current financial year to 26th January, 1956; and the average per pig during the financial year 1954–55.

The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. D. Heathcoat Amory)

During 1955–56 to 29th January, 1956, the subsidy per pig was approximately £4 18s. 2d. In 1954–55 it was £5 11s. 8d.

Mr. Collins

Is the Minister aware that although the taxpayer paid slightly less per pig in the second period the farmers received considerably less, while over the whole period housewives paid a good deal more for their bacon? Is not this a confirmation that the present pig policy is a complete and disastrous failure?

Mr. Amory

No, I do not at all agree with the hon. Gentleman. The average price that the farmer received this year has, of course, been lower than that received last year to the extent of the 2s. 6d. by which the guaranteed price was reduced.

Mr. Champion

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that if he had a proper marketing scheme there would be a lesser amount paid per pig, with more satisfaction for the farmer, for the taxpayer and for the consumer?

Mr. Amory

I agree with the hon. Gentleman to the extent that it is very important that we should have the best possible marketing scheme, which is why the Government appointed the Pig Marketing Reorganisation Commission to go into that precise question.

Mr. G. Jeger

Can the right hon. Gentleman explain why all farmers refer to his policy as the pig muddle?

Mr. Amory

There has never been any muddle on the part of Her Majesty's Government.