§ Sir Richard BodyTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food why he did not consult organisations representing consumers about EEC proposals for altering the trade arrangements between the EEC and New Zealand for sheepmeat; and if he will do so before approving future EEC proposals which affect the interests of United Kingdom consumers.
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonI take account of the interests of consumers, along with those of others, including700W butter market accounted for by the following countries (a) the United Kingdom, (b) the Republic of Ireland, (c) France, (d) New Zealand, (e) Denmark, (f) Netherlands and (g) Belgium.
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonThe available information is set out in the following table, which shows the percentage share of total new butter supplies in the United Kingdom by country of origin since 1973. The United Kingdom line is based on total production less intervention purchases, and those of other countries represent total imports into the United Kingdom.
producers and taxpayers, when considering EC proposals. My officials have had a number of consultations with representatives of consumers' interests on the Commission's proposals for sheepmeat, detailed consideration of which has yet to get under way in the Council.