asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will give particulars of the progress so far made in the development of an export market to the United States for (a) carcase meat; (b) processed meat, and (c) bacon.

(a) During recent months nearly 250 tons of gool quality frozen carcase beef have been exported to the U.S.A. and a further shipment is at present being prepared. The further shipment will also include some beef of manufacturing quality, for which a good market is reported to exist in the U.S.A.

(b) Limited quantities of canned Irish stew and canned ham have been exported to the U.S.A. in recent months and I have no doubt but that these products, if put up in attractive packs, would command a substantial market there.

(c) Exports of bacon and hams to the U.S.A. during the first nine months of 1950 amounted to nearly 1,400 cwts. as compared with 255 cwts. in the year 1949 and 492 cwts. in the year 1939. I am not satisfied, however, that the bacon curing industry has thoroughly explored the market for these products in the U.S.A. and I am considering what further arrangements can be made to secure the maximum development of this trade.