§ 64. Mr. Brocklebank-Fowlerasked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied with the rate at which farmers are applying for increased sugar beet acreage in 1973: and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PriorI understand that the terms of the 1973 beet contract are still under discussion between the British Sugar Corporation and the National Farmers' Union. Individual growers are naturally waiting for the conclusion of these discussions before taking decisions. Under the arrangements agreed with the EEC, beet can be grown in excess of the guaranteed acreage but the sugar so produced has to be disposed of on the world market.