asked the Minister for Lands and Agriculture whether his attention has been called to a statement in the "Report on the Pork and Bacon Trades in England and Wales," published by the British Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, to the effect that Chinese bacon exported to England meets with little or no demand there, and is mainly re-exported to Ireland; and whether he will state what steps, if any, he proposes to take to see that this article, if offered for sale in this country, will have a distinguishing mark to show its origin.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - CHINESE BACON.
I have seen the statement in question, and would refer the Deputy to the reply which I gave on 23rd February last to a similar question put by Deputy M. O'Reilly regarding the sale of foreign produce, with particular reference to bacon. The Deputy will presumably have noted that in the British Report referred to by him it is mentioned that, in spite of the large number of pigs in that country, the exportable surplus of Chinese pig meat is small, pork being the staple meat of the Chinese people. It appears improbable, therefore, that Chinese bacon finds its way into this country in any considerable quantity.
In the reply given to Deputy O'Reilly I pointed out that the powers needed would be provided under the Merchandise Marks Act, under which regulations could be made, so that imported goods would only be sold if there was an indication of the country of origin.
Would the Minister consult the evidence given before the Tribunal on Prices as to the importation of Chinese bacon into this country by various persons connected with the trade?
Mr. HOGAN
I read that evidence. It is not indicated there even approximately what amount of Chinese bacon comes into the country. My own belief is that there is very little coming in.
Even if the quantities that come in are small I think that people are entitled to protection in view of the reports that we get as to the curing and packing of this bacon.
Mr. HOGAN
There may be regulations made under the Merchandise Marks Bill, but that Bill has not been introduced. When it is passed there will be power there to make regulations.
A large quantity has been imported.
Mr. HOGAN
It is impossible to find out the amount imported, but my own view is that, compared with the amount of Canadian, American and Danish bacon that comes in, it is absolutely negligible.
Can the Minister state when the Merchandise Marks Bill will be introduced?
Mr. HOGAN
That is a matter for the Minister for Industry and Commerce. He has taken charge of the Bill.