HC Deb 07 August 1941 vol 373 cc2115-6W
Mr. Quibell

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, to provide feeding for pigs, he will arrange this autumn for the systematic collection of beechnuts?

Mr. Hudson

Yes, Sir. In collaboration with the other Departments concerned my Department has already discussed the proposed arrangements with the organisations best equipped to give effect to the systematic collection of feeding-stuffs of this nature.

Mr. Leonard

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that apart from the valuable beverage obtained from tea leaves, there is left a residue of 100,000 tons of food material containing 20 per cent. protein available for animals and poultry; and whether his Department has considered the possibility of collecting spent tea leaves from large caterers, institutions, and such organisations, with a view to their treatment?

Mr.Hudson

Some consideration has already been given to possible uses for spent tea leaves but apart from the comparatively small quantities available from any one source which would be likely to make collection expensive, their value for feeding to animals and poultry has not yet been established. I am exploring the problem further and will communicate with the hon. Member.