HC Deb 26 July 1967 vol 751 cc709-11
4. Sir J. Langford-Holt

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what has been the average weekly cost of shell egg imports during April, May and June compared with the weekly figure of £72,000 for the months of January, February and March; and whether he will now make a statement of his policy.

38. Mr. Ian Gilmour

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he will now take to ease the hardship caused to certain egg producers owing to the Government's import policy.

44. Mr. Elystan Morgan

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what proposals he now has for the protection of United Kingdom egg producers from foreign competition.

Mr. Peart

The average weekly cost of shell egg imports during April and May was about £58,000. The Overseas Trade Account figures for June have not yet been published. As I have told the House, the Government have under consideration the future level of egg supplies, which will include imports.

Sir J. Langford-Holt

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that his right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade has already admitted that dumping is taking place? In view of the fact that the trade is suffering a loss of 9d. per dozen, how can the right hon. Gentleman say that damage is not being done within the realms of the dumping legislation?

Mr. Peart

The hon. Member has certainly quoted correctly the President of the Board of Trade. I am looking at the wider question of egg marketing policy. This is the important question.

Mr. Elystan Morgan

Does my right hon. Friend agree that the point will very soon be reached where it will be necessary for him to intervene in this matter with a view to protecting home producers? Otherwise irreparable damage will be caused to this branch of the industry.

Mr. Peart

My hon. Friend knows that I have said that the position with regard to future egg supplies is being reviewed. We are looking into it. I regard it as an important matter. I shall be making an announcement in reply to another Question.

Mr. Bryant Godman Irvine

How many times has the right hon. Gentleman discussed this matter with the President of the Board of Trade?

Mr. Peart

It is customary not to reveal—[Laughter.] It is. I will only say it was several times.