asked the Minister of Agriculture if, in order to obtain reliable statistics for breeders of dairy cattle, he will institute a scheme of compulsory milk recording.

Mr. Hudson:

Under present conditions I am afraid it would not be practicable to institute a compulsory scheme.

Will the Minister appreciate how very necessary this is in the interests of milk production, and how important it is for milk producers?

Mr. Hudson:

Yes, but I am sure the Noble Lady will appreciate that great progress has been made. Shortage of labour is the limiting factor in extending what she and I would like to see done.

Is the Minister aware that since the Milk Marketing Board took over the administration from the milk recording societies, there has been a considerable reduction in milk recording herds, while at the same time a considerable increase has been shown in the Milk Marketing Board's accounts for milk recording? Will my right hon. Friend look into the whole matter?