§ Sir Raymond Gowerasked the Secretary of State for Wales what is his latest information concerning the recent fall in lamb prices in Wales and the consequences for farmers in Wales.
§ Mr. Nicholas EdwardsThe average market prices of lambs sold in markets in Wales in recent weeks are as follows:
Week commencing: Price 9 June 234.59p per kg. liveweight 16 June 190.45p per kg. liveweight 23 June (estimate) 150.00p per kg. liveweight It is too early to assess the impact that the recently announced restrictions on the movement and slaughter of sheep will have on the industry.
However, any fall in prices will be compensated under the sheep variable premium scheme which makes good any shortfall between the market price and the guide support price.
§ Sir Raymond Gowerasked the Secretary of State for Wales what is his latest information regarding the levels of radiocaesium in the parts of north Wales affected by the order made on 20 June prohibiting the movement and slaughter of sheep; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Nicholas EdwardsThe latest published results were contained in a press notice on 20 June a copy of which is in the Library of the House of Commons. Further lists will be published covering the current testing programme.
§ Sir Raymond Gowerasked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on results to date of efforts to improve the marketing of Welsh lamb; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Nicholas EdwardsI welcome the increasing emphasis on the marketing and promotion of Welsh lamb 409W in recent years and recognise the financial contribution which the industry itself has made, on a voluntary basis, through Welsh Lamb Enterprise and through the levy collected by the Meat and Livestock Commission. Results to date are encouraging but more remains to be done.