§ Mr. Hepworthasked the Minister of Agriculture for how long the Livestock 1738W Commission has had under consideration schemes submitted by local authorities and other bodies for the establishment of central slaughter-houses; and whether, as pending a decision in this matter no approval can be given for the building of any new slaughter-house in this country, steps can be taken to expedite a decision on the part of the Livestock Commission?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonI am informed that, after informal consultation with the Livestock Commission, a number of local authorities and other bodies are now preparing proposals which might form the basis of slaughter-house schemes under the Livestock Industry Act; but no detailed arrangements have yet been completed or submitted to the Commission for consideration. The provision of an experimental central slaughter-house under the Act is an undertaking which necessarily involves very careful consideration by the body concerned, and in these circumstances, I understand, the Commission feel that adequate time should be allowed for the preparation of proposals.