HC Deb 11 July 1966 vol 731 cc154-5W
Mr. Peyton

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what are the reasons which have led him to continue the ban on the export of those grades of meat for which there is no market in this country.

Mr. Peart

I am satisfied that only exceptionally was there no market in this country for the livestock and meat whose export has been affected by the ban.

Mr. Rowland

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will now remove the restrictions on the export of meat and livestock imposed because of the seamen's strike.

Mr. Peart

After very careful examination of the meat supply situation, in consultation with the trade, I have decided that further continuation of the ban would not be justified. Arrivals by the short sea routes have of course begun again; they are expected to continue at or above normal levels. Arrivals by the longer routes for the remainder of the year now seem likely to be such as will permit a normal pattern of marketing of both chilled and frozen beef and of frozen lamb.

My right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade is accordingly revoking from mid-night tonight the Order which he made on 18th May. The effect is I hat carcase meat exports will no longer require a licence. Applications for licences to export live cattle, sheep and pigs for slaughter may be submitted for consideration on the same basis as before 18th May.