HC Deb 23 May 1957 vol 570 cc1380-1
27. Mr. Watkins

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will examine the possibility of using the large amount of skimmed milk, which is being poured daily on a field adjoining the creamery at Builth Wells; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Godber

Because of the record milk production over the last few weeks, the Milk Marketing Board and the manufacturers of milk products have not been able to find a market for all the skimmed milk which has been available.

All the factories have been worked to the absolute limit. New plant has been brought into operation this year. The Board has made a vigorous and successful effort to increase the sales of skimmed milk for stock feeding.

Nevertheless, as in every year since 1950, it has not proved possible to avoid the wastage of some skimmed milk during the short flush season. No one regrets this more than the Milk Marketing Board who, in close collaboration with the manufacturers, are making every effort to avoid waste. Milk production is now falling slightly from its record seasonal peak of over 43 million gallons a week, and it is hoped that all the skimmed milk will be handled without waste by the end of next week.

Mr. Watkins

Will the Minister kindly ensure that all villages and schools around the depot are first provided with fresh milk? Also, will the hon. Gentleman make representations to the Milk Marketing Board and bring pressure upon the owners of the creamery to devise some process for dealing with surplus milk, even if it entails milk being brought for the purpose from other creameries in South Wales?

Mr. Godber

The hon. Gentleman's first point is a matter for the Milk Marketing Board, and I will ensure that his comments are brought to its attention. With regard to his second point, the hon. Gentleman will appreciate that the factory in Builth Wells is a C.W.S. one, and the Milk Marketing Board has for some time been urging the C.W.S. to extend its manufacturing capacity there. I hope that it will be successful.

Mr. Willey

Can the hon. Gentleman explain why the milk is not used? Why is it not used for feeding pigs? Why is it going to waste?

Mr. Godber

There has been a very substantial increase in its use for feeding pigs. The problem is an economic one, that of being able to convey it far enough, for the cost of distribution is so high. Nevertheless, as I said, there has been a substantial increase in its use. Some 750,000 gallons a week have been used recently for stock feeding.