HC Deb 07 November 1960 vol 629 cc633-4
17. Mr. P. Browne

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if it is his intention to implement the recommendations of the Terrington Committee; and if he will make a statement.

25. Mr. Mackie

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the Terrington Report.

26. Mr. Stodart

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he proposes to take following on the report of the Terrington Committee.

29. Mr. du Cann

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he has considered the views submitted to him by the Devon Cattle Breeders' Society upon the Terrington Committee's recommendations.

Mr. Soames

I hope to be in a position to make a statement very shortly. All the views which have been put to me are being taken into account.

Mr. Browne

When my right hon. Friend makes up his mind, will he bear in mind the fact that there is considerable opposition from both breeders' societies and the veterinary profession, who fear that there will be an influx into this country of disease, particularly blue tongue and foot-and-mouth?

Mr. Soames

I am aware that there are some who oppose it and others who would welcome the importation.

Mr. du Cann

Is the Minister aware that, not only are breeders' associations concerned about disease, as my hon. Friend said, but they are also concerned about the effect the decision to allow the importation of these cattle might have upon our export trade? Does he not think that, having regard to the prizewinning successes of British breeders, there is nothing that a foreign bull can do that a British bull cannot do better?

Mr. Soames

All these matters will be taken into account.

Mr. Mackie

Is the Minister aware that the people who will get the best out of this will be the consumers, who will have fat-free beef when these experiments are started?

Mr. Soames

That also will be taken into account.

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