§ Mr. Platts-Millsasked the Minister of Food if he is aware that, under the Pig Sales Order, 1948 (S.I., 1948, No. 1935), any pig over eight score in weight can be put on the market for acquisition by his Department at full standard rates without 12 days' prior notice having been given, in contrast to the normal procedure whereby fat pigs are accepted for purchase without notice only at emergency slaughter rates; and whether he will end this anomaly.
§ Mr. StracheyThe administrative arrangements under the Pigs (Sales) Order, 1948, provide for payment at the full standard rates for pigs Which are transferred to the Ministry of Food after having been determined to be over 160 lb. live weight when presented for sale at store markets. This arrangement is subject to review and payment may have to, be made at the emergency slaughter rates if it is found that farmers generally are using the store markets as a means of selling pigs to the Ministry without giving the required 12 days' notice.