§ 19. Mr. Peter Millsasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, in view of the serious position of many egg producers, if he will take steps as soon as possible to allow the export of eggs and a further increase in the minimum import price of eggs.
§ Mr. Anthony StodartExports of eggs are at present restricted by an international understanding, and my right hon. Friend is in touch with the Governments concerned with a view to ending the restriction. The minimum import prices will be reviewed with overseas suppliers early next year, but imports are now at a very low level and do not present a threat to the market.
§ Mr. MillsWill the Minister bear in mind that the egg industry is in a bad state and anything that can be done to help will be appreciated, particularly in the export of eggs and further reducing the import of eggs?
§ Mr. StodartI agree with my hon. Friend that there is a strong case for ending the ban on the export of eggs as conditions now are quite different from those in 1957 when the ban was imposed. Discussions are going on in this connection.
§ Mr. MackieI remember the hon. Gentleman's remarks when he was on this side of the House about the import of eggs. What level of import does he consider would affect the home market?
§ Mr. StodartThat is a very hypothetical question.