§ 23. Mr. Buchanan-Smithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is satisfied that the supply of beef-type calves is adequate to meet the demands of the market; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WillisThe Goverment consider that a moderate expansion of home production of beef is required and the recent Annual Review settlement included various measures designed to encourage the supply of beef-type calves.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithIs the Under-Secretary of State aware that 80 per cent. of beef calves come from dairy herds? Does he consider that the inadequate award given to milk producers in the Price Review is sufficient to ensure such supplies being forthcoming in future years?
§ Mr. WillisI think that the overall benefits given for this purpose will achieve the aim which we had in mind—which was to bring about a slight increase.
§ Mr. StodartWhen the Minister talks about a moderate expansion, has he realised that by 1970 there will be two million more people in this island? Has he worked out how many more beef cattle will be needed to feed them? It is far more than a modest increase.
§ Mr. WillisAll these factors were taken into consideration by my two right hon. Friends.