HC Deb 28 February 1968 vol 759 cc1407-8
47. Mr. Gwynfor Evans

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he proposes to take to increase the livestock exports from Wales.

Mr. Hoy

The initiative in promoting livestock exports rests with the industry. The Government's export services are, of course, available to exporters in Wales on the same basis as to exporters elsewhere.

Mr. Evans

Is the Minister aware that there is widespread resentment in Wales that our livestock export industry has not been sufficiently encouraged by the Government? There is a feeling that it has been discriminated against.

Mr. Hoy

I am sorry that there should be that feeling, because it is quite untrue. Indeed, we are willing to help anybody who is willing to take on the export market. If the hon. Gentleman feels that any section has been neglected in this respect concerning assistance, I can assure him that the President of the Board of Trade and my Department will be delighted to render that assistance.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

Concerning the export of livestock from Wales, can the Minister say what steps his veterinary service is taking to safeguard the inspection of animals which enter the store market from Eire?

Mr. Hoy

I do not understand what the hon. Gentleman means by that, because any imported cattle, from wherever they come, have to be inspected. The question that was dealt with here was about the export of Welsh Blacks to other countries. I was saying that we would be prepared to render whatever assistance we could and I invited the hon. Gentleman, if he has any complaints, to send them either to the Board of Trade or to my Department and we would consider them.

Mr. William Edwards

Is the Minister aware that most of the farmers in my constituency earn their livelihood by exporting cattle to England? Will my hon. Friend make sure that in future there will be no artificial barriers preventing them exporting to England?

Mr. Hoy

I fully appreciate that the Welsh people are delighted to do business with the English. I can also say that my own country is delighted to do the same.