BRITISH MEAT POLICY

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22444, 13 June 1936, Page 12

BRITISH MEAT POLICY

Apparently the British Government has not yet determined its long-term policy in respect to home-killed and imported meat. The Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Walter Elliot, has informed the House of Commons that the cattle subsidy will he continued for the maximum period authorised hy it, namely, until October 31. The subsidy, first granted in 1934, has been excused as a temporary measure to assist cattle graziers until Mr. Elliot could substitute a long-term policy. The present is the fourth extension of the subsidy, which is costing (he British taxpayer about £4,000,000 a year. Mr. Elliot informed the Commons a year ago that the negotiations with importers affecting a trade of an annual value of £166,000,000, were proving protracted and difficult. It was at that time that he concluded the temporary meat agreements with Australia and New Zealand. So far as is known little progress has since been made toward a more lasting arrangement, although the early expiry of the Danish, Argentine and Ottawa trade pacts will place Britain in a strong bargaining position. In fact, failing agreement, she will be able to impose her own terms. A year ago Mr. Elliot was proposing voluntary quotas and levies (ear-marked to assist British farmers) on "imported meat. In (he meanwhile, however, British public opinion has been aroused against a proposal whose effect would be to lower the nutrition standards of the masses who '•onsume the bulk of the imported article. Manufacturers, traders and shippers are also critical of a policy that would curtail exports by restricting imports. Negotiations are now in progress with representatives of Denmark, Argentina and Australia. New Zealand is also vitally concerned, mutton and lamb being included as well as beef, pork and bacon. It would, therefore, be interesting to learn from the Prime Minister or the Minister of Marketing what steps, if any, are being taken to safeguard the Dominion's interests.