HC Deb 07 July 1970 vol 803 cc23-4W
Mr. Dell

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what increase he estimates there will be in costs to British farmers who import livestock as a result of the closing of the Mersey Cattle Wharf, Birkenhead; what account will need to be taken of any such increases in the Annual Price Review; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Prior

No accurate estimate can be made of the effect of the closure of the Mersey Cattle Wharf on the costs to British farmers who purchase Irish cattle. This depends on the commercial decisions of those concerned with the trade. I have no evidence to suggest that alternative arrangements will involve an increase in delivery charges.

Mr. Dell

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether any application has been made to him to approve premises and accommodation for cattle imports at the port of Cardiff, following the decision of the Mersey Docks and Harbour Board to close the Mersey Cattle Wharf, Birkenhead.

Mr. Anthony Stodart

There have been exploratory inquiries but no application has been received.

Mr. Dell

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is satisfied that adequate port facilities will exist for handling cattle imported from the Irish Republic and Northern Ireland, including peak flows, when the Mersey Cattle Wharf, Birkenhead, closes on 31st December, 1970; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Prior

The closure of the Mersey Cattle Wharf, Birkenhead, will involve a sizeable reduction in the capacity of British ports to handle cattle from Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic, but my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport and I are satisfied that, given the necessary commercial adjustment, adequate facilities will exist to cope with the likely throughput even at peak periods.