THE MEAT TRADE

Waipukurau Press, Volume XXX, Issue 63, 19 March 1935, Page 2

THE MEAT TRADE

INCREASED CONSUMPTION IN GREAT BRITAIN It is often alleged that Britain is consuming less meat per capita than formerly, but this is not so. The following official figures show that the consumption is increasing and that the increase since 1910-14 is Hi per cent, or in total weight an Increase of 278,000 tons of meat annually. There has been in the last two years particularly, a reduction in the quantity of beef consumed. Consumption of meat is largely influenced by the weather. 1933 and 1934 were very hot summers which usually means a reduction in beef consumption and it will be interesting to see the consumption for 1935; we cannot jump to hasty conclusion without being often misled. The increasing consumption indicates that Britain (apart from beef) must be careful when the question of further reductions are under consideration. The figures show how important it is to move cautiously when considering the removal of restrictions on importations. Any large excess of importations that would have the effect of causing a crisis such as existed in 1931-32 would compel the Importing countries and Britain to meet again to re-adjust conditions. The interests involved are so colossal I that certainty is essential in every ; step taken. i

When considering the question of Britain’s meat supply it is important to become conversant with the enormous totals involved. The following statement sets out the quantities and the countries exporting meat to Great Britain; the amount produced by the Home farmers and an illuminating view of the comparative moderate amount sent by the Empire as against the foreign. The United Kingdom meat supplies 1933 (excluding pork, bacon and hams) are as follow:—Home killed, X 046,614 tons, viz. 54.24 per cent.;

imported, 887,057 tons, less re-ex-ports 4,118 t0n5—882,939 tons, or 45.76 per cent.; total supply, 1,929,553 tons, or 100 per cent. Analysis of the foregoing:—Home killed, 54.24 per cent.; New Zealand (11.50 per cent.) and Australia (6.41 'per cent.), 17.91 per cent.; Foreign: Argentine (22.78), Uruguay (2.19), Brazil (1.61), Patagonia (.68) and other countries (.79) — 28.05 per cent.; total, 100.20 per cent., less re-exports, .20 per cent.; total, 100 per cent.

EMBARGO LIFTED I -- 1 ON AUSTRALIAN EXPORTS i — ; By Telegraph—Copyright—Press Assn. SYDNEY, March 18. Meat exporters have been advised that the embargo on the shipment of mutton and lamb has been lifted and limited quantities can be exported for arrival in Britain in the second quarter of this year. It Is understood that the total quantity of mutton and lamb that can be shipped from the Commonwealth as a result of the decision is 43,000 !Wt.