§ 3. Mr. AmessTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to promote sales of British-produced wine to the EC.
§ Mr. SoamesThe Government promote exports of English and Welsh wine vigorously. The export services of Food from Britain are also readily available to growers.
§ Mr. AmessHas my hon. Friend had an opportunity to consider the merits of the Basildon grape, which is grown by many of my constituents? Will he care to reflect that as Basildon leads the economic recovery of our nation, so perhaps Basildon is well placed to lead the drive of British producers of wine further into EC markets?
§ Mr. SoamesMy hon. Friend is perfectly right. Essex wines, like Essex women, are the adornment of the crown of British life—[interruption]—as is my hon. Friend. Just as Basildon is the economic capital and leader of Britain, I have always been told that it drinks for Britain. We will do our very best to promote the Essex grape. I can assure my hon. Friend that my right hon. Friend the Minister served Essex wine to the Council of Ministers at an informal meeting and it was much appreciated. We will do all that we can to promote British wine.