Eggs

HC Deb 24 March 1965 vol 709 cc563-4

38. Sir H. Harrison

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will state the estimated production of home eggs in 1965.

Mr. Hoy

In view of the difficulties of forecasting egg production I could not give a precise estimate but, as stated in the Annual Review White Paper, the prospect is that in 1965–66 there will be a closer balance between supplies and demand than in 1964–65.

Sir H. Harrison

In view of that reply and the cut of ld. in the price of eggs in the Price Review, will the hon. Gentleman's right hon. Friend consult with his colleagues in the Cabinet now to prohibit the importation of foreign eggs? May I ask the Minister to look on this more favourably because I see from pictures in the national Press that he is now a keeper of poultry.

Mr. Hoy

I think that my right hon. Friend would keep a better variety. There is no sign that there will be any shortage in egg production. As I have said before, the importation of shell eggs is rather less than 2 per cent. of our total egg consumption. Anyway, we have to buy from other people as well as sell to them.

Mr. Haffer

Would not my hon. Friend agree that it will be rather difficult to keep an organised check on egg production if certain farmers keep giving their chickens away?

Mr. Maxwell-Hyslop

Will the hon. Gentleman ensure that a more constructive approach is adopted than just chopping the guaranteed price? Will he bear in mind that as domestic production equals domestic consumption, merely reducing the price by ld. is no constructive solution to the problem?

Mr. Hoy

I do not say that that is the whole answer to the problem. Talks are going on with regard to the production of eggs, the sale of eggs, and, in fact, the whole question of egg production and marketing. These talks are going on between the Ministry and the industry. Until they reach some conclusions, it would be foolish for me to anticipate the findings.