§ 1. Mr. Pollockasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what progress is being made in the harmonisation of energy costs for horticultural and glasshouse production amongst countries of the European Economic Community.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. Jerry Wiggin)I am not aware of any current move among the countries of the European Economic Community to harmonise energy costs in horticulture.
§ Mr. PollockGiven that the question of artificially low Dutch gas prices will not be resolved by the European Court for some time, will my hon. Friend confirm that our Government are prepared to take positive action to ensure the survival of our horticulture industry through the 1981 season? Will the Government consider some form of national assistance similar to that being given by the French, Belgian and German Governments to home growers?
§ Mr. WigginThe Commission issued a formal warning to the Dutch Government on 7 November and stated that it would take action in the European Court of Justice unless a satisfactory response was made within six weeks. I understand that the Dutch Government's reply is being considered by the Commission. I can assure my hon. Friend that this matter will be raised at the next meeting of Agriculture Ministers and that my right hon. Friend will press the case. We believe that that is the right way of dealing with the matter.