Mr. George Muir (Lisgar):

Mr. Speaker, we are pleased that the Department of Agriculture is allowing the importation of these European cattle. Since 7,000 head of cattle

June 25, 1970

Importation of European Cattle have been applied for but only 615 head are to be imported, we hope that all applicants will be treated fairly. We do not think the allocation should be on the basis of how big the operation is of the farmer or livestock man who is asking for the importation. We feel that the small farmer has a contribution to make to agriculture as well as the large one.

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We hope these factors will be taken into consideration in granting these permits and that the permits will be divided equitably among those who are interested. Because of the large number of applications, it is hard to understand why the importation of only 615 head will be allowed when as many as 7,000 could be handled. Perhaps the minister can explain why this big reduction was necessary. After all, 7,000 cattle spread across this country would not be too many to import in one year. We hope that in another year, after this program has been studied, larger importations will be allowed.

Mr. George Muir (Lisgar):

I have a question for the Minister without Portfolio from Sask-atoon-Humboldt. Will the minister discuss with the Wheat Board the advisability of extending the deadline on the delivery of carload lots of oats so that many producers who will be unable to do so before July 1 will be able to deliver up to July 15?

Mr. George Muir (Lisgar):

My supplementary question is for the Minister without Portfolio from Saskatoon-Humboldt. Could the minister inform the House if it is the intention of the Wheat Board to meet the Australian sale price on malting barley to Japan, in order that we can expect increased sales of that grade of barley to that country?

Mr. Muir (Lisgar):

A supplementary question, Mr. Speaker. In view of the importance of the new Canada Grain Act, which is new legislation entirely, and the fact that serious study must be given to it, it is going to be impossible to bring this bill back to the House before the recess. In view of that fact, would the minister discuss with the Minister of Agriculture the importance of bringing in an appropriate amendment to the present Act-

Mr. George Muir (Lisgar):

I have a question for the Minister without Portfolio from Sas-katoon-Humboldt. In view of the intensive study required in committee of Bill C-196, the new grain act, and the full appreciation of all members of the committee of the importance of a protein standard for export grain, would the minister be prepared to ask the government to bring forward the appropriate amendment to the present Canada Grain Act, which could be passed quickly as a desirable interim measure while the new Act is being studied?