§ 21. Mr. Buchanan-Smithasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is aware of the delay in the preparation of contracts for producers of bacon pigs; if he will investigate the reasons for this delay; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HoyAny contract for the supply of pigs is a commercial matter between the parties and is of course not a Government responsibility.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithBut is the hon. Gentleman aware that the average weighted contract price offered at the end of last week was sixpence below the standard price for pigs? Is he satisfied that this will lead to a recovery in the pig herd, which was called for in the Price Review White Paper?
§ Mr. HoyThe signs are that there will be a recovery in the pig herd, but the hon. Gentleman is now asking the Government to interfere between the producer and the bacon curer, which I am certain would not meet the commendation of the whole House.