asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, with a view to the better control of disease among live stock and an improved standard of meat, he will make arrangements in the near future to ensure a more effective co-ordination of veterinary services concerned with meat inspection and animal health, respectively.

Meat inspection is carried out by officers of local authorities, with whom liaison is maintained by the Ministry of Food through its technical officers. All practical steps are taken to maintain effective co-ordination between these officers and the veterinary officers of my Department.

Is the Minister aware that there is a considerable shortage of veterinary surgeons, and is he taking any steps to increase their number?

Yes, Sir.

Will the Minister,. in association with the Minister of Food, cause a national survey to take place of slaughterhouse conditions, so that we may have a policy on these matters for the whole of the country?

There was a policy before the war, which had to be suspended during the war, when some 16,000 slaughterhouses were reduced to 600. I am hopeful that it will be possible to make a further review.