BRITISH CATTLE INDUSTRY

Press, Volume LXXI, Issue 21419, 11 March 1935, Page 11

BRITISH CATTLE INDUSTRY

HELP FROM SUBSIDY EXTENDING TERM OF LEGISLATION (UNITED PRESS ASSOCIATION —BY ELECTRIC TELEOEArU— COPYRIGHT.) (Received March 10, 5.5 p.m.) LONDON, March 8. In the House of Commons, Mr W. E. Elliot (Minister for Agriculture), moving the second reading of the Cattle Industry (Emergency Provisions) Bill, explained that it was an interim measure extending for three months the bill passed in July. The question was of such importance to the Dominions and overseas countries that it must be exhaustively examined before action was taken. The best method of dealing with the situation was a short extension of the present subsidy to Home producers. "We are acting for the benefit, of all concerned and the interests of the overseas suppliers are being meticulously considered," he said. "The Government does not propose to alter the provisions of the bill." Mr Elliot said there was no doubt that but for the assistance provided by the present act, which was due to expire on March 31, the Home cattle producers would already be facing disaster. Great Britain had a special responsibility toward meat exporters since she remained easily the largest consumer of overseas supplies. Value of Home Industry No one could accuse Great Britain of narrow economic nationalism in her meat policy, but she could not neglect the importance of the Home livestock industry, which was also an important customer for many other British industries, including the shipping used to bring store cattle from Ireland for fattening in England. Mr Elliot added that the necessity for full consideration and the avoidance of hasty action was evidenced by the fact that even after long discussions with representatives of the Dominions, a misunderstanding arose in one case. This did not lead to serious consequences and had been cleared up, but until Mr J. A. Lyons (Prime Minister of Australia) arrived, it was impossible to continue the detailed discussion of the Government's long-term meat policy. Dr. C. Addison (former Labour Minister for Agriculture), moving the rejection of the bill, said that there was nothing in the bill to show that the producer would get the money he was intended to get. There was nothing to increase the consumers' purchasing power and there were no benefits to pass on to the agricultural labourer. The bill was read a second time by 120 votes to 23.