HC Deb 23 November 1954 vol 533 cc119-20W
101. Mr. Woodburn

asked the Minister of Food whether he is satisfied that the marks which have been applied to sheep presented for guarantee are sufficiently obvious and permanent, especially when applied to sheep while wet, to ensure that no duplication of payments can occur.

Dr. Hill

The provision of a satisfactory sheep marking instrument has presented great practical difficulties. Distribution of an improved instrument has now begun. I am glad to say that reports on its working to date are satisfactory.

Mr. Woodburn

asked the Minister of Food what official supervision is given to ensure that all stock which receives the Government guarantee are properly marked and checked against the existence of previous marking; and what steps he takes to satisfy himself that no stock sold by farmers and marked as having received guarantee payment have been represented for guarantee payment by the purchasers.

Mr. Amory

The initial responsibility for ensuring that all certified animals are properly marked rests with the certifying officer at each market: that of preventing the presentation of stock which has already been certified rests with graders appointed by the Minister. The work of both is closely supervised by Ministry of Food area staff.