§ 5. Miss Quennellasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what proportion of the British home market is now supplied with British-made butter.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. James Hoy)During the 12 months ended 31st October, 1965, the proportion was about 7½ per cent.
§ Miss QuennellDoes the hon. Member realise that that is a marked decline in the proportion of British home-produced butter? Can he tell the House whether it is the policy of his right hon. Friend to encourage or discourage this production?
§ Mr. HoyOn the contrary, it is 2½ per cent. better than it was last year and it is our intention to encourage its production.
§ Mr. GodberCan the Minister say how he proposes to deal with the proposals under the National Plan to increase milk production? Will this mean an increase in butter production and, if so, how will it be accounted for?
§ Mr. HoyThis is what is likely to happen, as milk production continues to rise compared with 1963 and 1964. It is agreed with the people concerned that the time of the Price Review is the best time to deal with any increase taking place.