§ 32 and 33. Mr. Willeyasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) what was the total number of pigs on agricultural holdings in England and Wales for May; and how this figure compares with that for the previous month and with that for May, 1959;
(2) what was the total number of sows for breeding on agricultural holdings in England and Wales for May; and how this compares with that for the previous month and with that for May, 1959.
§ The Joint Parliamentary-Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. J. B. Godber)The total number of pigs on agricultural holdings in England and Wales at the beginning of May is estimated at 4,150,000, compared with 4,570,000 in April and 4,820,000 in May, 1959. The corresponding estimates of sows for breeding were 544,000; 556,000 and 565,000 respectively.
§ Mr. WilleyIn view of these very disappointing figures, and the Government's claims about an increasing pig population, will the Government look at the possibility of giving longer-term assurances to the pig industry than they gave in the Price Review?
§ Mr. GodberNo, I do not think it would be the right time to give any longer-term assurances than we have given. I think that the assurances which we gave in the Price Review have helped the establishment of long-term contracts. I hope that when the June 672 figures are available, they will help to reassure the hon. Member about the position.