HC Deb 17 July 1918 vol 108 cc1056-7W
Mr. SUTHERLAND

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction which exists as to the manner of grading cattle in Scotland; and whether he will consult the interests affected with a view to setting up grading committees more satisfactory to sellers of cattle and reducing the profits of the middleman?

Mr. PARKER

I have been asked to reply. I am not aware that dissatisfaction exists with regard to the manner of grading cattle in Scotland. Two members of each grading committee are selected by the local farmers and butchers, respectively, while the third is a Government agent. The only intermediaries employed are live stock salesmen and wholesale meat traders, who act as Government agents, at a fixed rate of commission.