Mr. H. Stewartasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster why it is proposed to refuse licences to, and thus close down, all small bacon-curing establishments; and whether he will reconsider his decision?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonConsideration is being given to the conditions which will be applicable under control to the bacon-curing establishments to which the hon. Member refers.
§ Mr. Liddallasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he is aware that Messrs. R. Griffiths and Sons, of Bank House, Ruabon, are registered curers under the Bacon Marketing Scheme; that during the year 1936 their 1411W production of bacon amounted to 884 cwt., an average of 17 cwt. per week; that in 1937 and 1938 their production quota was cut down by the board to 540 cwt. per annum, approximately 10½ cwt. per week; and that now the director of bacon production intimates that licences to produce bacon are restricted to premises which for 1938 produced on an average 15 cwt. of bacon per week; and whether it is proposed to compensate Messrs. Griffiths and Sons for the expenditure incurred by them with the approval of the Bacon Development Board in rebuilding and remodelling their bacon factory in 1936 and 1937, or to permit them to produce bacon on those premises?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonI am having inquiries made into the circumstances referred to by my hon. Friend and will circulate a reply in the OFFICIAL REPORT as soon as possible.