HC Deb 04 April 1949 vol 463 cc165-6W
82. Mr. Mainwaring

asked the Minister of Food the number of ewes in lamb slaughtered during the month of March, and the consequent loss in the potential meat supply of the nation.

Mr. Strachey

I am afraid we could only obtain this information by extensive and costly inquiry.

83. Mr. Mainwaring

asked the Minister of Food what instructions are issued with regard to the possible slaughter of ewes in lamb and sows in pig; and to what extent meat inspectors are authorised to deal with this question.

Mr. Strachey

As to ewes, I would refer my hon. Friend to the replies given to the hon. Member for the Ayr Burghs (Sir T. Moore) on 23rd February and 21st March. I am afraid it has been found impracticable to apply the same instructions to pregnant sows. Meat Inspectors are only authorised to decide the question whether a carcase is fit for human consumption.