HC Deb 16 March 1989 vol 149 c532
Q12. Mr. Ralph Howell

To ask the Prime Minister if she will make a statement on the current level of world stocks of grain.

The Prime Minister

World stocks of grain are expected to fall over the current year because of adverse weather conditions in 1988 in a number of countries, notably the United States and Canada. However, sowings of winter cereals in the main production areas for the 1989 harvest are well up on last year and, given favourable weather conditions, world cereals production is likely to increase significantly in 1989.

Mr. Howell

While thanking my right hon. Friend for her reply, may I ask whether she is aware that the FAO thinks that world stocks of grain are dangerously low?

The Prime Minister

I think that that is just a little at variance with the report that I have just given. Our objective is to reduce the surplus of grain so that we may have a better world price, which will be helpful to all those in the Community who grow wheat. So far, the situation looks reasonably good, but we shall know better towards the end of the year.

Mr. Yeo

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker

I shall take points of order after the business statement.

Mr. Yeo

It arises out of questions, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker

That may well be so, but I shall still take it afterwards.