§ Mr. Goldingasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received from the National Federation of Meat Traders Associations concerning a possible shortage of home-produced meat in March; what was his reply; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Anthony StodartThe Federation have suggested to my right hon. Friend that the detailed application of the recent increase in the guaranteed price for fat cattle might result in an excess of marketings this autumn and a consequent shortage of home-produced beef next spring. The increase in the guaranteed price was an essential step in safeguarding our home-produced beef supplies; and the revised seasonal scale of standard prices together with the operation of the scale of abatements and supplements should encourage orderly marketing of fat cattle throughout the winter and spring months.