HC Deb 20 July 1966 vol 732 cc86-7W
31. Mr. Brewis

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether, in view of the outlook for the bacon industry in the next few months, he will suspend the operation of the flexible band affecting the guaranteed price for pigs.

Mr. Peart

No. To do this would not in any case help the bacon industry in the next few months.

54. Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is now satisfied that United Kingdom bacon producers will fulfil their quota under the Bacon Market Sharing Agreement in the current bacon year ; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peart

I have nothing to add to the reply given by my hon. Friend the Joint Parliamentary Secretary to my hon. Friend the Member for Carlisle (Mr. Ron Lewis) on 5th July.

61. Mr. Eldon Griffiths

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received from bacon curers on the subject of costs and profits ; and what reply he has sent.

Mr. Pearl

The British Bacon Curers' Federation have told me of the difficulties occasioned for them by the strength of the market for pigs. The Farmers' Unions have also asked for talks on this subject. These discussions are not yet complete.