§ Mr. Woofasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what fall in livestock prices at auction markets there has been since January 1974 to the nearest possible date.
§ Mr. PeartThe expansion of the beef herd in recent years is likely to produce an increase in marketings later this year. Any premature unloading of cattle on to the market could disturb market prices and prejudice the orderly marketing of future supplies.
The Government have decided to bring forward to 1st July 1974 the increase in 499W the United Kingdom guide price scheduled for 31st January 1975 in order to sustain the market during the present difficult situation. I also announced in the House yesterday that I have given instructions that the certification procedures necessary to operate a system of direct help to beef production should be put in a state of readiness.