Mr. John D. TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what examination he has made of the implications for the Northern Ireland beef and meat industry of the recent changes in the circumstances of Goodman International; what proposals he has to safeguard Ulster beef producers; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Brooke[holding answer 15 October 1990]: The Goodman slaughter plants in Northern Ireland are continuing to trade normally and producers who sell to these plants are not experiencing difficulties. Should there be any disruption or discontinuation of trading by these plants the Government believe that sufficient alternative outlets in Northern Ireland are available to handle all the stock to be slaughtered. I do not anticipate, therefore, the need for any Government action to protect the interests of producers.