§ 34. Sir Clive Bossomasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will implement the proposals of the Little Neddy to increase beef production.
§ Mr. Cledwyn HughesI would refer the hon. Member to the statement which 1286 I made to the House on 12th November.—[Vol. 773, c. 210–3.]
§ Sir Clive BossomDoes the Minister realise that, unless real new incentives are given, there will be no confidence in the future, and few beef producers will be willing to take the financial risks?
§ Mr. HughesI made it clear to the House last week that additional resources will be required. What we want is an increased output of beef to 1972–73 similar to that suggested by the E.D.C.
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsIs the Minister aware that, to increase production, the best means would be to introduce an import levy system to stop cheap meat coming from overseas, and implement the plea to stop Argentine meat coming here and, with it, the possibility of foot-and-mouth?
§ Mr. HughesThere is an element of protection at present, because beef prices are high. Dealing with the first part of the hon. Gentleman's Question, this is a matter which we are discussing with the farmers' unions.