§ 112. Mr. J. Johnsonasked the Minister of Food how long his Department takes to confirm the appointment of fat stock graders, after they have been democratically elected by the local branches of the National Farmers' Union.
§ Mr. F. WilleyMembers of livestock certifying authorities are not elected; they are appointed by the Ministry under the Livestock (Sales) Order, 1949. My hon. Friend is probably referring to the nomination of new farmer graders in place of the present ones by some county branches of the National Farmers' Union. There is no unnecessary delay in dealing with these nominations, but sometimes detailed inquiries and correspondence cannot be avoided. The final decision whether or not to accept nominations must, of course, rest with the Ministry.