§ Mr. HALL-CAINEasked the Minister of Agriculture if he can make any statement as to the progress of discussions upon the possibility of adding bacon and mutton to the National Mark grading scheme?
Major DAVIESGrades of mutton and lamb which might form the basis of a National Mark scheme were demonstrated at agricultural shows in 1932, and similar grades are now used in connection with the Ministry's experimental schemes for the sale of fat stock by grade and deadweight. The desirability of introducing a National Mark scheme for mutton and lamb will be considered in the light of the recommendations which the Reorganisation Commission for Fat Stock may make in their report, which will, it is hoped, be published in a week's time. As regards bacon, my right hon. Friend understands that the Bacon Marketing Board are considering the prescription of standard national grades for British bacon.