HC Deb 08 July 1982 vol 27 cc445-6
13. Mr. Geraint Howells

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied with the present state of the dairy industry; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peter Walker

Yes, Sir. I believe that both sides of the industry can look to the future with confidence.

Mr. Howells

Will the Minister comment on the EEC proposal to give a £4 million rebate to small dairy farmers in this country? Who will administer the scheme?

Mr. Walker

We are having discussions, but the scheme will be administered by the Milk Marketing Board.

Mr. Colvin

Bearing in mind the damage that can be done to the dairy industry by tuberculosis and brucellosis, will my right hon. Friend either confirm or deny that he has authorised the cessation of the gassing of badgers? If his reply is in the affirmative, what discussions has his Ministry had with the RSPCA on acceptable humane methods of control?

Mr. Walker

My hon. Friend will know that I asked Lord Zuckerman to produce a report on this subject. He strongly confirmed that it was important to carry out an eradication policy or there would be a considerable spread of tuberculosis. He also pointed out that there would otherwise be a threat to the long-term prospects for the badger population. He asked for further research to be undertaken into the form of gassing used. I recently received a report showing that the form of gassing used was causing hardship to badgers beyond that expected. I therefore stopped that form of gassing. We are now having urgent discussions on the most humane and best methods of eradication.

Mr. Hardy

I do not dissent from the right hon. Gentleman's action on bovine tuberculosis. However, is the Minister aware that his optimism about the dairy industry is slightly misplaced, given the effect on the price of butter of the common agricultural policy and the less than scrupulous approach of the margarine advertisers?

Mr. Walker

The decline in butter consumption over the years has added to the surplus in the Community. There are areas where consumption of dairy products is likely to increase. The consumption of cheese and yoghurts has been increasing and the consumption of flavoured milks is likely to increase considerably. I agree that there is a battle between the margarine and butter interests on the health aspect. It is not a judgment that I am qualified to make.

Mr. Newens

Is the right hon. Gentleman still as steadfast in his resistance to any threats to the dairy industry's doorstep delivery system? Is he confident in our ability to continue to resist such threats?

Mr. Walker

Yes, Sir.

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