§ 72. Wing Commander Bullusasked the Minister of Food if he will make a statement on the milk position.
§ Mr. WebbBecause of the cold, wet spring, milk production this year has so far been disappointing. In each month since January production has been below last year's, and last month there was about 10 per cent. less milk than in May, 1950.
There is, of course, at present a comfortable margin of supply over the demand for liquid milk. It is too early yet to make any firm estimate of the autumn position, but milk supplies are always low for a few weeks at that time of the year, with the risk of local shortages. In past years, with the cooperation of the milk trade and the housewife, we have got through without serious difficulty, and I believe we shall do so again. I shall watch the position closely so that any steps which may be necessary to ensure fair distribution may be taken in good time; and my officers are already conferring with the dairy trade on the best means of overcoming any difficulties which may arise.
In the meantime, I have arranged to augment autumn supplies in England and Wales by bringing milk from Scotland and Northern Ireland. I shall also prohibit the use of milk for the manufacture of less essential commodities, including the manufacture and sale of fresh and sterilised cream, from 3rd July.