HC Deb 03 February 1958 vol 581 cc797-8
27. Mr. du Cann

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is aware of the concern among producers at the slump in bacon pig prices; and if he will take steps to remedy the situation.

Mr. John Hare

I have arranged to meet representatives of the National Farmers' Union, the Fatstock Marketing Corporation, and bacon curers to discuss the situation. In the meantime, I have nothing to add to the reply which I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Yeovil (Mr. Peyton) on 27th January.

Mr. du Cann

While I congratulate my right hon. Friend upon that initiative, which we hope will be satisfactory in resolving a most unfortunate situation, might I ask him to bear in mind during the discussions that it appears to be the almost unanimous view of farmers that two things are required, first, a pig marketing organisation, and, secondly, some control of imports?

Mr. Hare

All I can say is that I will take note of what my hon. Friend has said, and I will certainly take note of what is put forward at the meeting, which will be held on Thursday.

Mr. Willey

While I welcome the right hon. Gentleman's initiative, will he again look at the question of marketing and not have a closed mind, as his predecessor did? Will he appreciate that there is a real need for the orderly marketing of pigs?

Mr. Hare

The hon. Gentleman will agree with me that it would be much better for me to wait and hear what these very important bodies have to say to me before I make any statement.

Commander Maitland

When my right hon. Friend has completed these discussions, will he make a statement to the House about their results?

Mr. Hare

I would rather see how the discussions go. If I think that it would be useful to make a statement, I shall certainly do so.