HC Deb 20 January 1983 vol 35 cc471-2
11. Sir Geoffrey Johnson Smith

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the average annual yield of milk from dairy cows in the United Kingdom compared with other European Community countries.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

According to information published by the Milk Marketing Board, the average annual yield in 1981 in the United Kingdom was 4,908 kg per cow. This compares with a figure for all 10 member states of 4,127 kg per cow.

Sir Geoffrey Johnson Smith

I am grateful to my right hon. Friend for that reply. Will he ensure that no measures are taken at the EC price review that will penalise the advantages of the British milk producers that arise because we produce milk more efficiently?

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

The figures that I have mentioned show the way in which British dairy farmers have taken advantage of technical improvements and advances in breeding, feeding and so on. They are certainly counted among the most efficient producers in Europe. I assure my hon. Friend that in the price fixing negotiations we shall endeavour to ensure that there is no discrimination against our efficient industry.

Mr. Ashton

If the British cow industry is so efficient compared with the rest of Europe, why does not the Minister advocate similar subsidies, compulsory planning agreements and protection for the British car industry?

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

I had hoped that the hon. Gentleman would welcome this, because the way in which the British dairy industry has responded has meant not only that more of our dairy products come from British farms but that a successful export industry has been built up. I hope that the hon. Gentleman will welcome that.

Sir Peter Mills

Does my right hon. Friend agree that as yields are so high—and we congratulate British farmers on that—the need for new markets in dairy products is essential? Will my right hon. Friend give even further encouragement to new types of cheeses, such as Lymeswold, so that there may be even greater varieties of cheeses and dairy products at home and for export?

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

One of the most encouraging developments in recent years is that, although we still import large quantities of butter, we now export considerable quantities. I support and praise the initiative of such organisations as the Milk Marketing Board and other bodies in developing new products. It means that there is scope for increased markets both at home and abroad.