HC Deb 08 July 1953 vol 517 cc92-3W
63. Mr. Morley

asked the Minister of Food if his attention has been drawn to the protests made by meat traders against the imposition of a condition of sale upon the trade in the instance of unwanted and unsaleable frozen mutton; and if he will make a statement.

Major Lloyd George

As long as rationing lasts I must arrange for the even distribution amongst butchers of the less popular as well as the most popular types of meat, on the basis of fair shares for all.

66. Mr. Willey

asked the Minister of Food whether he will make a statement on his dispute with the butchers about the supplies of poor quality mutton.

68. Mr. Chetwynd

asked the Minister of Food whether he will withdraw his instructions to butchers that they must accept an allocation of ewe mutton or be deprived of their allocation of other meat.

Major Lloyd George

I have met the butchers' representatives, and I am aware of their difficulties; but so long as rationing lasts I must distribute supplies evenly. The proportion of ewe mutton is not likely to exceed 3½ per cent., and some of the allegations about its quality have been grossly exaggerated.

69. Mr. Chetwynd

asked the Minister of Food whether he will reduce the price of ewe mutton.

Major Lloyd George

I hope to make a statement on this subject within the next 24 hours.