§ Mr. Scott-Hopkinsasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about the future of the Bacon Market Sharing Understanding in 1972–73.
§ Mr. PriorThe international 1969 Bacon Market Sharing Understanding between the major suppliers of the United Kingdom market has been reviewed in accordance with its provisions. Agreement has been reached for its continuation in the 12 months following 31st March, 1972. In the light of the agreement with the European Economic Community to introduce the mechanisms of the common agricultural policy from 1st February, 1973, the United Kingdom has undertaken to give three months' notice of its intentions to withdraw from the understanding if this proves to be necessary in order to meet our obligations as members of an enlarged Community.
After consultation with the Bacon Market Council in accordance with the provisions of the understanding, the Government have determined the total quantity of bacon required on the United Kingdom market in the 12 months beginning 1st April, 1972, as 639,570 tons, a reduction of 10,430 tons over the determination for 1971–72. The expected level of production in the United Kingdom is determined at 265,000 tons—the same as the 452W 1971–72 figure, but representing a slightly higher proportion of the total requirements. The remaining 374,570 tons is allocated to the exporting countries as follows:
Tons Denmark 286,520 Poland 40,000 Irish Republic 28,180 Sweden 10,000 Netherlands 7,520 Hungary 2,000 South Africa 150 Rumania 100 Yugoslavia 100 The reserve quantity remains at 35,000 tons.