§ 11. Mr. Geraint HowellsTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on discussions held with the European Community concerning hill compensatory allowances.
§ Mr. CurryWe are firmly opposed in principle to Commission proposals that would discriminate against British farmers in the less-favoured areas, where they are essential to the welfare of our countryside.
§ Mr. HowellsCan the Minister give an assurance that any withdrawal of FEOGA funds will be made up by the Government? Can he give a further assurance that the hill compensatory allowance for this year will be increased?
§ Mr. CurryWe oppose the Commission's proposals in principle, and our first battle involves making certain that we impress on our negotiating partners the fact that we will not surrender a principle that is so important to us. All other issues are subsidiary to that.