§ 22. Mr. Molyneauxasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will seek by means of grants to promote the production of store cattle in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. Anthony StodartThe production of stores in Northern Ireland is already encouraged by the existing measures of support given for the production of fat cattle for beef. The question of any changes will be a matter for consideration at the Annual Review.
§ Mr. MolyneauxWill the hon. Gentleman consider what more he can do to help, since there has been a progressive switch in the Republic of Ireland from store cattle to fat cattle, thereby defaulting on the quotas agreed under the Anglo-Eire Free Trade Agreement? Would he say what steps he is prepared to take in view of the Republic's failure to meet its obligations?
§ Mr. StodartMore stores are coming to Great Britain this year and fewer are going to Northern Ireland. Special assistance is given in Northern Ireland for the production of stores and that assistance is not available in Great Britain. I will certainly see that this matter is kept under review.