HC Deb 23 February 1966 vol 725 cc95-6W
89. Sir P. Agnew

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will, before the Free Trade Agreement with Eire comes into force, negotiate an amendment of the terms relating to horticulture, so that British apple growers will not be treated regarding export conditions less favourably than they are today.

92. Mr. John Wells

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied that producers of English apples will be in a better position as a result of the Anglo-Irish Trade Agreement; and what steps he is taking to protect the interests of British growers.

Mr. Peart

I am satisfied that the arrangements governing the export of British apples to the Irish Republic under the new Agreement will be not less favourable to our growers than those that now apply. I have taken and shall continue to take all steps necessary to protect the interests of British growers.

95. Mr. J.E.B. Hill

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what restrictions on the export of United Kingdom apples into Ireland and on Irish apples into the United Kingdom resulted from the Anglo-Irish Trade Agreement; and what powers he has reserved to ensure that the United Kingdom producers will not have their share of the British home market thereby reduced.

Mr. Peart

The Agreement provides for unlimited access for apples in both directions. I am not sure what the hon. Member has in mind in the second part of his Question but I would draw his attention to the provisions for consultation in Article XXIII.