§ Mr. DIXONasked the Food Controller if he is aware of the dissatisfaction and alarm of graziers and farmers at the present chaotic state of the fat cattle market, many of them having had their fat cattle returned to them from market whilst many markets are closed pro tem, for the reception of fat cattle; if he can say whether Irish fat cattle are still being sent over for sale in England, still further glutting our markets; if so, how many were landed in each of the last two weeks; and if he will consider the advisability of altering the flat rate as the only means of making it possible for graziers to retain their fat cattle to later dates in the interests of the country without serious loss to themselves?
§ Mr. CLYNESThe views of my Department on the difficult situation which has arisen owing to the dearth of feeding-stuffs were explained to the House yesterday by the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food. During the week ending 5th October, the imports of Irish fat stock were: Beasts, 13,236; sheep, 12,590; and during the week ended 12th October: Beasts, 13,181; sheep, 13,277. As from next Saturday the quantities of Irish stock to be accepted at English ports will be reduced to the same extent as those of English farmers. The prescribed price for fat cattle during the winter months is not a uniform rate, but provides for an increase of 1s. for each of the months from December to March, inclusive. A further modification is now being considered, and an early announcement will be made.