HC Deb 22 December 1965 vol 722 cc2074-6
11. Miss Quennell

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how long he expects his consultations will take with those sections of the agricultural industry affected by the Brambell recommendations.

13. Mr. Rankin

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he proposes to take to make regulations requiring conditions for particular animals, in view of the fact that the committee appointed to inquire into livestock husbandry declared that certain practices of intensive farming are contrary to animal welfare and need to be controlled.

Mr. Peart

I have nothing to add to the replies which I gave on 1st and 15th December.

Miss Quennell

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that until the consultations are complete and the Government's decision is known, the industry is left in a state of considerable uncertainty, which may last two or three years? Could he not tell the House that he will inform the interested parties that there will be a definite time limit on consultations?

Mr. Peart

The hon. Lady will appreciate that after I received the report I immediately asked for evidence from the associations. I have set a time limit—31st January. When I have had their views, I will consider what action I should take.

Mr. Rankin

Will my right hon. Friend also note that the report verifies the fears which many of us have expressed in the House about the cruelties which are inherent in intensive farming? In view of that, will he try to proceed as quickly as possible in this matter?

Mr. Peart

I have often repeated that I am awaiting replies and I will consider all the factors involved.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

Is the right hon. Gentleman having any consultations with overseas suppliers about that part of the Brambell Report which concerns imports of the type of food being produced under intensive methods?

Mr. Peart

I cannot make investigations of other countries' agriculture, but we know the position in those countries. This will be a factor.

12. Mr. Jopling

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a study of the financial implications to the British agricultural industry of implementing the Brambell Report, and of the practicability and cost of ensuring that food imported into the United Kingdom was produced by methods which did not conflict with the recommendations of the Report.

Mr. Peart

My study of the Report will include all relevant considerations.

Mr. Joplin

Is the Minister aware that that is a most unsatisfactory Answer to what I believe was a fair Question? Will he give an undertaking that he will not promote legislation, as a result of this Report, which gives overseas producers an unfair advantage over British farmers?

Mr. Peart

I am certain that the hon. Member would accept that it is reasonable that I should have representations made to me. I have asked for evidence on the Brambell Report by all organisations affected. I should have thought that that was reasonable and sensible.