Mr. Temple Morrisasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has any information to show how the production of butter on farms in Wales has increased or decreased during recent years; and what steps are being taken to encourage such production?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonFrom a special inquiry carried out last year it is estimated that the production of butter on farms in Wales decreased by roughly 30 per cent. between 1930–31 and 1935–36. Improving conditions in the livestock industry as a result of the Livestock Industry Act are likely to be accompanied by some increase in stock-rearing and consequently in the manufacture of farm butter, but it is for farmers themselves to decide whether it is more advantageous in their particular circumstances to retain their milk on the farm, or to dispose of it under contract through the Milk Marketing Board.