HC Deb 15 April 1986 vol 95 c332W
Mr. Walters

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received from farmers about the proposed Agricultural Development and Advisory Service charges for statutory work in connection with milk and dairies regulations.

Mr. Gummer

[pursuant to his reply, 14 April 1986]: I have received a number of representations from and on behalf of dairy farmers opposed to the introduction of charges for the work done by our officials in connection with the enforcement of milk and dairies regulations. I recognise the concern that has been expressed, but I consider that charging is appropriate where the producer derives benefit from the work. It is clear that this applies in the case of milk where the high quality and reputation of the product helps to maintain consumption and thus benefits producer returns.

Mr. Walters

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if there are any proposals to abolish compulsory dairy inspections for farmers whose milk falls into category A and B of the Milk Marketing Board total bacteriological count.

Mr. Gummer

[pursuant to his reply, 14 April 1986]: No. I do not consider that it would be appropriate to rely solely on the results of the total bacterial count testing done by the Milk Marketing Board. These results do not necessarily demonstrate compliance with the milk and dairies regulations. This can be checked only by inspecting the farm concerned; however, the board's results may help us to direct this enforcement effort more effectively, and thus more economically.