HC Deb 27 July 1967 vol 751 cc272-3W
Mr. Pardoe

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has now received the British Egg Marketing Board's revised arrangements for the processing of first and second quality eggs; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peart

Yes. The British Egg Marketing Board has offered to amend its proposals in such a way as to ensure that 50 per cent. of the estimated supply of eggs should be reserved for those firms who wish to bid for the proposed No. 2 Processing Contracts.

As I have already announced, my right hon. Friends and I have decided to set up a Reorganisation Commission which will be considering within its terms of reference the whole question of the marketing and distribution of egg products including any views on these matters which may be submitted to them. In the meantime, pending the Commission's report, my right hon. Friends and I have asked the Board to introduce its revised proposals and the Board has assured us that it will do so very early next year.