§ Mr. Ieuan Wyn JonesTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received concerning the retention of the beef variable premium; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonI have received representations from producers which point to the value of the beef variable premium scheme. Those involved in the meat trade, particularly those exporting beef, have pointed to the disadvantages which the BVPS has for them because of the clawback on exports. The retention of the BVPS until the end of this year was an important feature of the settlement in December 1986. We shall be negotiating later this year on the arrangements for 1989.