Common Agricultural Policy (Hansard, 6 February 1986)

§ 12. Mr. Thurnham
asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what are his Ministry's objectives in regard to the common agricultural policy; how he is monitoring their implementation; and if he will make a statement.

§ Mr. Jopling
My Ministry seeks to promote the Government's policies by negotiating for improvements in the common agricultural policy so that it is more economic in its operation and fair to our producers and traders.

§ Mr. Thurnham
Will my right hon. Friend resist all attempts to spend an extra £500 million on vast and ever-growing surpluses?

§ Mr. Jopling
During the next few months I shall devote my attention to ensuring that steps are taken to bring the production of foodstuffs within the European Community back to a realistic rational and prudent level.

§ Mr. John
As Herr Kiechle thinks that the way to limit production is to pay farmers more for their produce, and as the Minister seeks to do exactly the opposite, when will he seek to reach a compromise between those two views?

§ Mr. Jopling
The hon. Gentleman knows that I made a speech in Berlin last week, and Herr Kiechle was present. I hope that when I next meet Herr Kiechle he will have seen the light.