§ 22. Mr. Wingfield Digbyasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is his latest estimate of the decline of pig numbers in the South West.
§ Mr. HoyI estimate that pig numbers in the South West region declined by about 13 per cent. between September, 1965, and September, 1966.
§ Mr. DigbyIs this not a most serious matter in view of the fact that this is a traditional part of the farming of the South-West?
§ Mr. HoyYes, I agree. That is why my right hon. Friend, without waiting for the Annual Price Review, stepped up the numbers that could be produced in the middle band, which means that 1½ million more pigs can be produced and the guarantee will apply to them. Secondly, as announced last week, we have maintained our share of the bacon agreement. These factors, taken with the statement that my right hon. Friend has made today, should give the assurance that the industry requires.