HC Deb 04 February 1982 vol 17 c534
15. Mr. Hal Miller

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what proportion of United Kingdom beef now comes from the dairy herd.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

About two-thirds.

Mr. Miller

Does my right hon. Friend agree that this shows the dependence of one sector on the other? Will he therefore accept that it is necessary to keep a profitable dairy industry in this country?

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

I agree with my hon. Friend. I am moderately encouraged that the last census returns showed signs of a halt in the decline of the dairy herd. That is in the interests both of beef production and of the consumer.

Mr. Myles

Will my right hon. Friend reflect on the effect of the use of Holstein bulls on the production of beef from the dairy herd?

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

This matter arises particularly in relation to grading. Farmers must be free to choose the breed that they believe is appropriate to their circumstances.