HC Deb 02 March 1966 vol 725 cc1268-9
2 and 3. Mr. Peter Mills

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) if he will give detailed figures of the level of profitability in the pig industry; and if he will make a statement;

(2) if he will give detailed figures of the level of profitability in the dairy industry; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peart

The profitability of producing pigs and milk is being considered, together with all other relevant factors, in the Annual Review which is now in progress. I cannot anticipate the Review determinations.

Mr. Mills

Will the Minister bear in mind that I have been keeping pigs for 24 years and that, in common with many other pig keepers, I find it virtually impossible to make a profit at the present moment? If the Minister wants pigs, will he say what he is prepared to do now, as he may not have another chance of helping the industry?

Mr. Peart

The hon. Gentleman knows full well that the Review is on, and we are having discussions on this very matter.

Mr. Noble

Will the right hon. Gentleman explain why, if the Chancellor could anticipate his Budget yesterday, he, as Minister of Agriculture, cannot anticipate the Price Review today?

Mr. Peart

The right hon. Gentleman knows that it would be wrong of me to anticipate it. The review is on, and for this reason there is a special procedure which is known to everyone.

Mr. Blackburn

With regard to the price of pigs, is it correct, as farmers claim, that only 40 per cent. goes to farmers, and 60 per cent. to dealers?

Mr. Peart

As I have said, all the factors will be considered and are now under review.