Lord Chelwoodasked Her Majesty's Government:
What action they propose to give reasonable protection to British growers against any further imports of soft fruit pulp at unrealistically low prices, whether such action has the active support of the European Commission and when results can be expected.
Earl FerrersWe took action in 1980 following representations on behalf of British growers. As a result, the Commission extended its import licensing system to frozen and pulped strawberries.
Last year, following an approach made by the Commission to the Polish authorities at our request, Poland agreed to adopt pricing policies aimed at avoiding market disruption.
We will continue to monitor the market situation closely in consultation with the Commission and we will press for effective action to be taken where this is necessary in the interests of producers, processors and consumers.