§ Mr. Moonmanasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the marketing boards; what representations he has received relating to their future rô and how far this relates to EEC policy.
§ Mr. John SilkinThe Government's policy on the marketing boards remains unchanged: in any discussion of their future in the EEC we shall seek to maintain those functions of the boards which are essential to the orderly marketing of the products concerned. The TUC, the farmers' unions and a number of hon. Members on both sides of the House are among the many organisations and individuals who have given me their views on the boards: these representations have without exception supported the boards' continued existence. The boards' activities have naturally to be consistent with the Treaty of Rome and EEC regulations, and talks are being held with the Commission to find legal solutions which fully meet the Government's aims.