HC Deb 14 May 1969 vol 783 cc1388-9
16. Mr. Jopling

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will implement the recommendations of the Northumberland Committee's Report.

Mr. Cledwyn Hughes

I would refer the hon. Member to the statement I made on 1st May announcing the Government's decisions on the Report.

Mr. Jopling

Does the Minister recall that on that occasion he said that only boneless meat would be imported, and that the bones themselves were a dangerous carrier of this virus? Is he aware that bones can still be imported from these countries where foot-and-mouth disease is indigenous? Does he realise that they can be used for industrial purposes, one of which is the manufacture of fertilisers, which would seem to be very dangerous? Will he investigate this situation?

Mr. Hughes

I shall be glad to investigate that point.

Mr. Wellbeloved

Will my right hon. Friend continue to bear in mind that the only way in which the British housewife can obtain good quality meat at a reasonable price is by his early announcement that he has adopted the recommendation of the Northumberland Committee of an early reduction of the 20 per cent. ad valorem duty, which would need to be practically abolished if he is to achieve that aim of good quality meat at low prices?

Mr. Hughes

As I said in my statement on the findings of the Northumberland Committee, we shall be discussing the various rates with our traditional suppliers within and without the Commonwealth. I can say no more than that at present.