HC Deb 27 July 1959 vol 610 cc20-1
40. Mr. Denzil Freeth

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what was the average weekly consumption in weight of bacon per head in this country in 1938, 1948 and 1958 or the latest available year, respectively.

Mr. John Hare

The weekly average consumption of bacon and ham during the years 1934–38 was 8.6 oz. per head and in 1948 and 1958 was 3.4 oz. and 7.7 oz., respectively.

Mr. Freeth

While congratulating my right hon. Friend on the increase in bacon consumption since we left Socialist scarcity, will he do everything he can to stimulate the consumption of bacon, which is still substantially below pre-war levels, in order to help the British bacon producer?

Mr. Hare

I have very considerable sympathy with what my hon. Friend says. I believe that increased consumption can be provided as long as we get the quality we need and as long as the housewife is satisfied that she gets what she wants.

Mr. Willey

Will the right hon. Gentleman look at this matter seriously? Will he help British curers to increase the consumption of bacon here? There is plenty of room for it if the curers can get the assistance of the Minister.

Mr. Hare

I am sure that the hon. Gentleman and I between us will do what we can to help in this situation.