§ 11. Mr. Nicholsonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how the Northern Ireland dairy industry has been affected so far by the introduction of milk quotas in April.
§ Mr. ButlerIt is still too early to assess the effects of the introduction of the milk supplementary levy, but the indications are that the majority of dairy farmers are adjusting to the new situation.
Milk production in the quarter. April-June 1984 is estimated to have been down on the equivalent period of 1983, but it is likely that many producers will have to make further adjustments to remain within their quota allocations.
§ Mr. NicholsonIf the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food continues to deny Northern Ireland the full benefits of the special Northern Ireland allocation, will the right hon. Gentleman ensure that the Government fully implement their decision to equalise hardship throughout the United Kingdom, so that all hardship cases, especially those in Northern Ireland, receive equal and fair treatment?
§ Mr. ButlerI entirely refute the suggestion that Northern Ireland did not benefit from the 65,000 tonnes extra allocation. It definitely did. Regarding hardship, the hon. Gentleman will know that we have increased the proportion of farmers whom we hope to buy out, or the proportion of quota which we hope to buy out, under the outgoers scheme, which is giving special treatment to Northern Ireland yet again.