HC Deb 31 October 1983 vol 47 cc604-5
6. Mr. Hooson

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what progress has been achieved in 1983 in the marketing of Welsh lamb; and whether he is satisfied with progress to date.

Mr. Nicholas Edwards

Producers and the meat trade are being made increasingly aware of the need for effective marketing and presentation of Welsh lamb as an identifiable, quality product. I and my officials have frequent discussions with all producer and trade interests, including the unions, Food from Britain, the co-operative movement and the Meat Promotion Executive on how this might be best achieved. An encouraging start has been made but much remains to be done.

Mr. Hooson

Does my right hon. Friend believe that the Welsh lamb enterprise is receiving adequate support from producers in Wales?

Mr. Edwards

It got off to a somewhat slow start and producers were a little reluctant to contribute in the early stages, but there has been increasing support, though much more needs to be done. When I visited food and agricultural shows last year, I was disappointed with the marketing effort of Welsh producers compared with producers in other parts of Europe. There is no doubt that a big job remains to be done.

Mr. Geraint Howells

Will the Secretary of State give an assurance to Welsh producers that the ewe premium will be paid within the financial year; and, if so, when?

Mr. Edwards

That does not arise from this question, which is about marketing.