§ Mr. John E. B. Hillasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about the prospects for pig production in the coming year.
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§ Mr. PriorThe latest forecast of pig numbers, covering the 12 months to March, 1972, falls within the range of 1505 million to 15.35 million and shows a big increase on the corresponding forecast made in February. Although market prices have been somewhat firmer of late, they are still well below what they were a year ago, and deficiency payments have been running at 60p or more per score.
Our policy is for steady expansion of pigmeat production in line with the requirements of the market.
In making our determinations following this year's Annual Review, when we confirmed the increase in the middle band of the flexible guarantee for pigs to 13.35 to 14.75 million certifications, we said we would review this figure later in the year if circumstances made it appropriate. We have decided, after examining the relevant considerations, that we should not be justified in making any change now. In accordance with the forecast of numbers to which I have just referred, there will therefore be an automatic reduction of 9p per score in the basic guaranteed price as from next week. We shall review the position again when the results of the June census are available and we shall not hesitate to take further action in regard to the flexible guarantee if we are satisfied that market demand warrants it.