HC Deb 28 February 1968 vol 759 cc1391-2
16. Mr. Stodart

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will state the sources of any representations made to him to lift as from 4th March the ban which he imposed on certain imported meat, and of those which he has received asking for the ban to be extended; and what replies he has sent.

Mr. Peart

I have received many representations about the suspension of imports. I have been urged to lift the suspension by domestic meat traders, food manufacturers, and overseas suppliers. Farming interests, the National Federation of Womens' Institutes, and others have pressed me to retain the suspension. The replies I have given have been on the lines of my statement of 15th February.

Mr. Stodart

Has the Minister pointed out to those who have called for the raising of the ban the consistently poor trading balances which we have had with those who have supplied us and the enormous costs to the nation of the present oubreak of foot-and-mouth disease?

Mr. Peart

I have not got involved in an argument on this matter. My replies follow the general principles of my statement of 15th February.

Mr. W. Baxter

As this is a very complicated business, would my right hon. Friend be willing to prepare a paper on the advantages and disadvantages of curtailing meat imports from South America?

Mr. Peart

That is another matter. Hon. Members should await my statement next Monday.