HC Deb 12 July 1965 vol 716 cc23-4W
68. Mr. Hornby

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how much money was collected during the year ended 31st March, 1965, through the levy on meat research; and what proportion of this sum was paid by the producers of cattle, and what proportion by the purchasers.

Mr. John Mackie

The total sum collected in the United Kingdom by recovery by my right hon. Friend through the Fat- stock Guarantee Scheme under the Meat Industry (Scientific Research Levy) Order in respect of certified sales of cattle, sheep and pigs, during the year ended 31st March, 1965, was £107,445. Of this amount approximately 16 per cent. was paid by the producers of cattle and the same proportion was paid by the buyers of cattle. In addition, it is estimated that some £14,686 was paid by buyers in weeks in which no guarantee payment was made under the scheme. My right hon. Friends are engaged in a review of the levy scheme and we shall, in due course, be discussing the outcome with all sections of the meat industry.