§ 100. Mr. Bossomasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, if he is aware of the desire of some breeders to import Charollais cows or heifers from Canada; and what action he will take in the matter.
§ Mr. SoamesThe purpose of the importation of Charollais bulls from France last year was to see whether, in comparison with bulls of British breeds, they have anything to offer in improving the quality of beef from the dairy herd. These trials have not yet begun, since the first calves are only now arriving. Establishment of the Charollais breed is outside the scope of the trials, and as I have said66W previously, consideration of it must await the outcome of the trials.
The Secretary of State for Scotland and I have therefore decided to restrict until further notice the use of semen to the purpose for which the importation was made and to prohibit its use for inseminating any female of the Charollais breed. A condition to this effect is being added to the licences of all A.I. Centres, and no exceptions will be made. Exports of Charollais semen to destinations outside the United Kingdom will continue to be prohibited.