asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state the price per pound for beef (dressed carcase weight) arranged between his Department and the British Ministry of Food covering the period from 1st June to December, 1941.

The prices per pound (dressed carcase weight) fixed by the British Ministry of Food for fat cattle from this country in the period June-December, 1941, have been published from time to time. Copies of these announcements have been transmitted to the Deputy.

Would it be possible that these prices are not being paid at the present time? I am informed that the prices of which I have a list here, and which have been published in the Press over the name of the Secretary to the Department, are not being paid.

To the exporter?

Yes.

Oh, they are. At least, I got no complaint that they were not being paid.

I am making that statement now. Will the Minister inquire into it? I have been informed that there has been a deduction of a penny per pound from the price on the list which I have before me. That is the reason why I am raising the question.

I am quite sure the exporters would have complained if they were not being paid.

The exporters are probably a few firms. It would not matter to them very much, probably, one way or the other. They could deduct it from the farmers. I am informed that these prices are not being paid to the exporters. Therefore the farmer is not getting them.

Will the Minister say in what condition fresh meat is arriving at the other side?

Generally speaking, very good.

My information is different.

Would the Minister make inquiries with regard to the point I have raised as to whether these prices are being paid?

I will, but I could hardly understand the exporters not complaining if they are not being paid. If they are not being paid the published prices, it is extraordinary that they have not come to me about it.

I can tell the Minister that I have it from some people who are, so to speak, exporters or who are managing co-operative concerns and exporting, that the British Ministry is not giving these prices. Therefore, the producer is getting 1d. less than the published price.

I will inquire into it.