asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state the percentage of the cattle exported through the Port of Cork during the nine months ended on 30th September which were milch cows or cows suitable for dairy purposes; and if he will further state what steps he has taken to safeguard the milk and butter supply for the people of this State.

I desire to remind the Deputy that it is not in accordance with public policy to furnish detailed statistics of trade since September, 1939.

The number of dairy stock permitted to be exported is being controlled, in order to ensure that a sufficient number of cows will be available in the country for the production of milk and manufacture of butter.