HC Deb 16 October 1968 vol 770 cc351-2
5. Mr. Buchanan-Smith

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he proposes to take regarding the Worth Report on the Bacon Curing Industry.

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. James Hoy)

The stabilisation arrangements for the bacon curing industry and the Bacon Market Sharing Understanding—which is shortly to be reviewed with participating countries - are both at present under consideration in the light of all the relevant factors, including in particular the recommendations in the Report of the Worth Committee.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

Is the Joint Parliamentary Secretary aware that this Report drew attention to the need to improve efficiency in certain sections of the bacon curing industry? When will positive steps be taken to ensure that the processing side of the industry as well as the producing side does its best to increase the industry's competitive position?

Mr. Hoy

I agree that this Report made recommendations, not only to the Government, but to the industry. It is obvious that we would want some little time with the industry to discover the most satisfactory solution.