§ 4. Mr. Farrasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, preparatory to any final decision being made by the United Kingdom on the terms of membership of the European Economic Community of Spain, so far as they concern agriculture, he will undertake a study and issue a report on the effect of Spanish membership of the European Economic Community on each sector of the agriculture and horticulture industries in the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerA considerable body of information and research now exists on Spanish agriculture, its effect on the United Kingdom market and the likely consequences of Spanish accession to the European Community. I have considered carefully the need for a further study, but have concluded that this would not be justified at present. My Department continues to monitor developments and changes in Spanish agriculture and horticulture.
§ Mr. FarrIs my right hon. Friend aware that about 2 million acres of land in Spain are suitable for irrigation and that once Spain joins the EEC and the land is irrigated our markets for many domestic products will cease to exist? Will he consider again the real threat in Spain's application?
§ Mr. WalkerYes, Sir. In any judgment we would consider the impact of such irrigation policies. However, the Spanish market also offers a considerable outlet for our agricultural products which Spain does not produce.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydMight there not be further indirect costs to the British taxpayer of Spanish accession to the EEC, as it could lead to calls for a new regime in other areas—for example, olive oil, which is the mainstay of rural Italy?
§ Mr. WalkerYes, Sir. That is why discussions are taking place on olive oil production in the existing Community. The British Government have put forward proposals which take those dangers into consideration.