§ Mr. CartwrightTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received about the need for a more systematic distribution of EEC surplus food that could be organised by charities; and what has been his response.
§ Mr. Gummer[holding answer 11 December 1987]: I have received a number of representations about this in recent weeks. I am continuing close consultations with the main charitable organisations and have explained to those concerned that the Government are still considering the implications of the European Community free food scheme.
§ Mr. CartwrightTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he is taking to ensure that a further free distribution of surplus EEC food is made available to needy families during the winter period.
§ Mr. Gummer[holding answer 11 December 1987]: The Council of Ministers has now adopted a permanent scheme for distribution of free food from intervention stocks. The Government are considering the implications of this in close consultation with the main charitable organisations.