§ 4. Mr. Buchanan-Smithasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is to be the quota for home producers under the new bacon sharing agreement.
§ Mr. Cledwyn HughesThe Bacon Market Sharing Understanding has to be reviewed not later than March, 1969. Discussions with our overseas suppliers are at present well under way and should be completed fairly soon. I will, of course, make an announcement when they are complete.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithCan the right hon. Gentleman confirm or deny rumours that home producers are to be released from the restriction of quotas? If that is the case, will he accept that this release from the restriction of quotas can be of little meaning unless, at the same time, the producers are given a better price incentive at the Price Review?
§ Mr. HughesI cannot confirm or deny anything in advance of the final settlement, as the hon. Gentleman should know. The Government, as he is no doubt aware, are giving considerable assistance to the curing industry, both 459 directly through the curing industry stabilisation arrangements and, indirectly, through the fatstock guarantee scheme support for pig production.
§ Mr. GodberCan the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that, in considering this matter, he is taking into account the proposals of the "Little Neddy" in regard to increased pig production?
§ Mr. HughesYes, Sir.