HC Deb 07 November 1939 vol 353 c81W
Sir C. MacAndrew

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he can make any statement regarding economic prices for high-grade cattle in Scotland, to ensure the maintenance of this important Scottish industry?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

In certain parts of Scotland it has been the practice for cattle of good quality to be fattened to an excellent degree of finish and these cattle have consequently realised prices hi excess of those ruling for the general run of well finished quality animals. To the extent that this finish is dependent on heavy consumption of feeding stuffs it is undesirable to fix prices which will cover the cost of producing it in war time. My right hon. Friend recognises, however, that the question is not wholly one of high feeding costs and he is considering how far it may be possible to deal with the special case of quality cattle which will kill out a high percentage.