§ Mr. Henderson Stewartasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he is aware of the serious dislocation of the livestock trade in Scotland and the confusion experienced in all markets as a result of the new regulations imposed; why Scottish- producers were not consulted in the preparation of these regulations and the fixing of prices; and what action has been taken, in response to the 1511W unanimous demand of the National Fanners Union of Scotland submitted to his Department on 22nd September, for immediate reorganisation of the present control system and adjustment of prices in consultation with the union?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonThe latest reports from Scotland do not bear out the statement of my hon. Friend in the first part of his question. Since the receipt of the representations made by the National Farmers' Union of Scotland on the 22nd September, prices have been adjusted by means of a new Order. On the introduction of full control the regulations will be modified in a manner calculated to meet in a large measure the points raised by the union.
§ Sir H. Morris-Jonesasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster why the old marketing town of Denbigh has been closed for the slaughter of animals and a seaside resort in another county substituted instead?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonThere is no slaughter-house in Denbigh with sufficient capacity to serve the needs of the district. It is now proposed that slaughtering should be done at Ruthin, an arrangement which, I understand, is satisfactory to the retail butchers' buying committee.
§ Mr. W. Robertsasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether, in future, at least one farmer will be included amongst those responsible for grading and estimating the weight of livestock in auction marts?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonYes, Sir. This is provided for in the control scheme.