Slaughter Bill Opposed by Defense and Agriculture Departments

The Department of Defense and the Department of Agriculture are both opposed to the humane slaughter bill now pending in Congress, it was learned here today. The bill, which will be considered next week by the Senate Agriculture Committee, is also opposed by Orthodox Jewish groups in the United States who view the measure as a threat to Shechitah, Jewish ritual slaughter.

Opposition on the part of the Departments of Defense and Agriculture is based on the fact that the legislation would require the U.S. Government to buy meat only from companies that adhere to slaughter requirements as specified in the bill. A feeling exists that the price of meat would increase and all sorts of complications result if the pending legislation is adopted.

Further study of the matter has been urged by officials of the Executive Branch and agencies of the government. It was believed that committee members were reluctant about passage and not convinced of the desirability of the bill. Although they approve of its broad intent, a feeling exists that the measure would cause much difficulty and expense. The meat industry maintains generally that the bill is unnecessary and undesirable, claiming that present methods in wide use fulfill its intent.

Congressional sources today reported that pressure to pass the measure has been tremendous with thousands of letters deluging the Capitol from all over the nation.