asked the Minister for Agriculture whether, in view of the fact that this country exported fresh pork valued £2,644,952, in 1963, and that the export of fresh pork is now practically prohibited, he will take steps to encourage farmers in the small farm areas to increase production for this particular market; whether he is aware that changing conditions in Great Britain indicate a demand for heavy pigs; and if he will have careful inquiries made as to the potentiality of this new and growing outlet for this country's producers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pork Production.
42.
Exports of fresh pork are being, and will be, maintained at as high a level as possible consistent with fulfilling our allocation of bacon exports to Britain under the multilateral understanding. The increase in the minimum prices for Grade A and Grade A Special pigs should encourage increased production, and this should, in due course, enable pork exports to be expanded.
As regards the second and third parts of the question, my information is that the demand for heavy pigs is very limited and that such pigs are not suited to the market for our bacon and pork exports.