§ Mr. Cledwyn Hughesasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what consultations he has had with the Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Ireland about the importation of cattle from Eire to the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BishopMy right hon. Friend has discussed the situation with the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries of the Irish Republic, and my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister discussed it with the Prime Minister of the Irish Republic when they met last week.
We shall continue to take all possible steps to avoid disruption of trade as a result of action by producers. The police have taken considerable measures to maintain law and order in very difficult circumstances, and their restrained action has been highly commendable.
§ Mr. Michael Lathamasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he is taking to prevent substantial exports of beef from the Irish Republic to the United Kingdom following the recent Brussels agreement; and whether he will make a statement on his proposals to defend the interests of British livestock producers in that regard.
§ Mr. BishopI have nothing further to add at this stage to what my right hon. Friends said during the debate on Agriculture on 31st October, and the replies to Questions yesterday.