HC Deb 06 July 1933 vol 280 cc514-5W
Captain DIXON

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware that there is serious dumping of butter and, in view of the disorganisation thus brought about among the butter producers, will he take steps to prevent it?

Major ELLIOT

I am aware of the low level of prices ruling for butter, though this, I think, is due rather to general over-supply of the market. As I have already informed the House, the situation regarding imports of butter and other dairy products is engaging the closest attention of the Government. I regret that I am not in a position to make any further statement.

Captain DIXON

asked the Home Secretary if he is aware that unrest is being caused among Northern Ireland farmers owing to the dumping of butter; and, in view of the difference in the price of Free State butter in Dublin and of Free State butter in Belfast, can he take steps to prevent this dumping?

Sir J. GILMOUR

I am aware of the difficulty. My right hon. and gallant Friend will appreciate, however, that this is only one aspect of the much wider problem of the general supply situation regarding imports of butter and other dairy products which, as indicated in statements made from time to time by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, is receiving the Government's careful consideration.