asked the Minister for Agriculture the average cost per lb. of manufacturing butter in creameries.

The average cost of manufacturing butter in creameries, including the cost of packaging in 56 lb. boxes, is approximately five-pence per lb.

Is the Minister aware that the difference between the price the farmer is getting for his milk and the price charged for butter is far in excess of 5d. a lb.? Can the Minister explain where the difference comes in?

That is a separate matter.

It is.

It is very difficult for me to explain it to the farmers.

We are all obliged to have a talk with them from time to time.

And a courteous one I am sure.

And a courteous one.