HC Deb 22 January 1969 vol 776 c475
31. Mr. Stodart

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has now received the interim report of the Northumberland Committee; and when he proposes to publish it.

Mr. Cledwyn Hughes

The Duke of Northumberland has informed me that he hopes to let me have the first part of his Committee's report in the spring. I will publish it as soon as possible after that.

Mr. Stodart

In view of the memories which so many of us have of the foot-and-mouth tragedies and the great importance which will be attached to the report, will the right hon. Gentleman represent to his right hon. Friend that we should debate the report soon after it has been published?

Mr. Hughes

Yes, I appreciate the need for a debate, and I am sure that this can be arranged through the usual channels.

Sir Clive Bossom

Will the Minister ask the Northumberland Committee to issue with the interim report a statement about the export of meat from South America? If we are going to stop this meat the sooner we know the better, as a tremendous tonnage is already on the high seas coming to this country.

Mr. Hughes

The hon. Member will be aware that the terms of reference to the Committee were very wide, and the Committee has visited South America.